LIBRARY OF CONGRESS. 

l£*#M — 

(g§ap4-™ ... ©np^rra^i §ji. 

Shelf >Mlit3 



UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. 



f##**™; 



> 






•I 





Father Junipero Serra, 



A NEW AND ORIGINAL HISTORICAL DRAMA, 
IN FOUR ACTS. 



CHESTER GORE MILLER. 



(DRAMATIC work, the second.) 



ILLUSTRATED. 




CHIC AG O: 

PRESS OF SKEEN, BAKER & CO 

1894. 






Copyright. 1891 

BY 

CHESTER GORE MILLER. 
All Rights Reserved, 



CONTENTS. 



, 



Preface 

Dedication, Sonnet, " To California " 

Prologue, Sonnet, "The Padres" 

Dramatis Personje 



PAGE 
. 5 

. 7 
. 9 
. 10 



ACT I 11 

II, Scene I 44 

"II 65 

III 82 

IV, Scene I Ill 

" II ..137 

SONGS. 

The Serenade 22 

The Sea 48 

St. Joseph's Day 82 

SONNETS. 



Early Mass at San Carlos del Carmelo. . , 

The Pacific From Cypress Point 

Vesper Bells of San Carlos del Carmelo. 
An Abalone Shell 



29 

60 

... 69 

84 

Temptation 115 

Death 138 



Epilogue, Sonnet, " Padre Serra" . 



161 



PREFACE. 

In California, August 28, 1884, services were 
held to commemorate the one hundredth anniversary 
of the death of Padre Junipero Serra; and the memor- 
able occasion gave to the author at that time the idea 
of writing an historical-pastoral drama on the life of the 
saintly man so identified with the early annals of the 
state. The play was written in Chicago, in 1890, '91, 
'92, and '93. 

While the Franciscan Friars who brought the light 
of Christianity to the shores cf California were educat- 
ing her savages, and founding her historical monu- 
ments, there grew up in purity and simplicity a match- 
less existence, referred to as "The Old Mission Days;" 
the most beautiful picture of pastoral life the world 
has ever known; now chronicled by a record, a ruin, and 
a memory. But though unfortunately that time is past, 
it served to show the worthy influence of the first 
pioneers, and particularly of their leader, a man whose 
name shall ever shine pre-eminent in the history of the 
Western Coast, — The Very Reverend Father Junipero 
Serra. 

C. G. MILLER. 

Chicago, III., Oct. 1893. 



DEDICATION. 

O California, an empire's star, 
Upon your beauty time has made no raid; 
Along your shores one finds no flaw to mar 
The fairest work that Nature ever made. 
Had I the gift to write a sonnet sweet, 
To dedicate a eulogy to you, 
My fourteen lines I fear would scarcely meet 
The right inscription that I know is due. 
For eighteen years within your border-lines 
Showed me some prototypes I would not wron£ 
Romantic land, the riches of your mines 
O'er-shadow not your poetry and song. 

My recollections I would ne'er dismiss; 

In mem'ry then of you inscribed is this. 



PROLOGUE. 

Those who attend immunity from care, 

Should on the Mission Fathers' lives reflect; 

They, subjects of a fleeting time's impair, 

Left lessons which too many oft neglect. 

Along the coast and on the desert waste 

They toiled, with true religious zeal their thought; 

For martyr here and there a cross was placed, 

Those deaths they envied, those the crowns they sought. 

None asked their help and found that help refused; 

His race, his caste, his creed, barred not their door, 

The path to which the rich and humble used, 

Some sorrow to relieve, some hope restore. 

Few lives can show a more exalted state; 

Their virtues no brief proem can relate. 



ACT I. 

Home of the Governor. Monterey, Cal. The 
Garden, Afternoon, March 18, 1784. 

Enter Gov. Pages and Manuel. 

Gov. Fages. Where seems the least oft 'times exists 
the most. 

Manuel What! do you mean that he admires her? 

Gov. Fages. Yes* 

Manuel. I thought that holy orders — 

Gov. Fages. Well, you know 

He 's not a novice yet, and so they see 
Each other often; now let friendliness 
Grow into love — I.'m almost sure it has — 
Then he '11 renounce all hopes of monkish life: 
Dolores holds him high in her regard, 
Yes more than any one in Monterey. 
His mystic vein is his advertisement. 

Manuel. What makes you think this love is possible? 

Gov. Fages. I judge by way he looks at her. 

Manuel. He looks! 

Would that not be a trifling evidence? 

Gov. Fages. If so I should not count it such a fact. 

Manuel. Eduardo, my old friend so dear to me, 
Had oft in early boyhood days remarked 
Of pious ways, appearing as inclined 
To serve the Church, as I to serve the State: 



12 FA THER JUNIPERO SERRA. 

I know he is a youth of powerful will, 

And when he once determines on a course 

There 's nothing that would turn him from his path. 

Gov. Fages. Man's love is ever stronger than his will; 
So fear the competition for her hand. 

Manuel I do not care! I '11 risk the rivalry! 
The conquest I expect an easy one; 
She kissed the rose I gave her, murmuring 
So gently, a sweet, "Graaas, Senor." 

Gov. Fages. I hope you '11 find the task an easy one. 

Manuel Ah, Governor, but she is beautiful. 
She 's not a type, she is a poet's dream; 
I never saw such matchless grace before. 

Gov. Fages. Now, Manuel, just reason on this plan. 
You want Dolores for your wife, and by 
Your perseverance and my influence 
You win, and wealth 's a certainty; through you 
Her father '11 be in sympathy with me, 
Thereby, my rule of state is doubly strong, 
And Padre Serra's rising power is checked; 
Don Pablo's influence at Court is great, 
He 's hardly on my side. Ah, como no? 
Some viceroys come from humble walks in life, 
Some from the velvet paths hidalgos tread; 
And those sustained by seconds at the call 
Obtain the recognition of the king. 
We 've always worked for common interests 
Since you came out from Spain two years ago, 
And as your father was my warmest friend 
You got a first lieutenancy to start, 
And now you are a captain. 



ACT I. 13 

Manuel Thanks to you. 

We are ambitious and our chance is good. 

Gov. Fages. Let your ambition unpretending be 
Or else mistrust of motive will result. 
Great possibilities are offered us, 
The more advanced, the safer we become: 
Our occupation 's kindred, that of arms, 
But nerve 's demanded if we wish to rise; 
Ah! I was taught that in Chihuahua once. 
It 's only influence that keeps us here 
And helps us to advance to higher planes; 
So when opponents cry, "You grasping thieves," 
In jealousy because they do not rise, 
We 've but to answer back with louder cry, 
"See what we 've done in our short term of power, 
Assail us not for we are virtuous." 

Manuel. I 'm with the moving spirit of the State, 
So do not fear for my diplomacy. 

Gov. Fages. Just so, you 're apt and understand the 
scheme; 
It takes the State to grind the Clergy down. 
Talk to your friend and urge him for the Church, 
For I believe myself it 's best for him; 
In course of love, a friendship must not stand. 
Now here he comes. 

Manuel We only need to speak 

Of absent ones to call their presence forth. 

Enter Eduardo. Walks to Crucifix on Wall. 

Eduardo. Age me on, O Years, age me on; but may 
wisdom keep an equal pace, it not, let youth and its fol- 
lies bloom on forever. 



14 FA THER JUNIPERO SERRA. 

Enter Father Serra. 

Gov. Fages. He bears with evident pride the antici- 
pation of his calling. 

Father Serra. Yes, but with a spiritual pride, not 
worldly. 

Gov. Fages. A gifted youth I'm told, — he should be 
proud. 

Father Serra. The man fortunate in natural gifts has 
not the right or reason to be proud; they are posses- 
sions no work of his attained. 

Manuel greets Eduardo aside. 

Gov. Fages. Don Pablo will be here. 

Father Serra. I shall be glad to see him. 

Gov. Fages. What of the converts? Have your efforts 
increased the number of catechumens? I hear those 
strange Indians from the interior are very wild. 

Father Serra. So far I have been unsuccessful; they 
are haughty and insolent; the protection is inadequate. 
It will be some time before they acknowledge the Papal 
jurisdiction. 

Gov. Fages. The State. 

Father Serra. Pardon me, the Church. 

Gov. Fages. I can spare no more soldiers at present. 

Father Serra. But San Carlos is in constant danger, 
it is the same at all the Missions. I received a letter 
from Father Figuer, saying, that San Diego just es- 
caped another massacre through the piety of a neophyte; 
and at San Buenaventura, Fathers Dumetz and Santa 
Maria are having trouble with the natives. Do you wish 



ACT I. 15 

ny flock to share the fate of Father Jaume, the martyr 
of our cause? 

Gov. Fages. I do not wish them massacred; you are 
but two leagues from Monterey. 

Father Serra. And after the pagans have attacked us, 
you desire to be notified? 

Gov. Fages. There is really little to dread; do not be 
afraid. 

Father Serra. Dread! Fear! Too often have I longed 
to be a martyr for our Faith, that happiness has been 
withheld. I do not fear the savage or his knife; his 
anger or his treachery; it is for the innocents within my 
charge I am alarmed and would stay the march of rapine, 
murder, and of fire. 

Gov. Fages. My army is very small. 

Father Serra. You must request more men of the 
viceroy or we shall never carry out the grand idea of civil- 
izing these savages. 

Gov. Fages. Stay your enthusiasm, take time, all 
these things will be accomplished in time. 

Father Serra. Governor, nothing is won by procrasti- 
nation. I cannot consent to waste or wait one hour in 
this great work, and see these vast opportunities remain 
undeveloped. Why are we here? to idly dream away 
the hours and let the spirit of conversion die? see these 
countless ones born and grow up without the baptismal 
Sacrament? sin without the purification of the Sacra- 
ment? marry without the Sacrament? die without the 
Sacrament? He commands the Fathers spread the 
blessed Faith; I am His humble servant, and in my 



16 FATHER JUNIPERO SERRA. 

poor efforts His wishes shall not receive neglect, or His 
holy work want for activity. 

Gov. Fages. Step into my study, I 've documents for 
you to sign, and letters for you from Los Angeles. 

Father Serra. There are other things I also wish to 
speak about, Governor. Eduardo, did you have Vicente 
notify the Indians of the rancheria, that we would begin 
the cultivation of their tract on a more extensive scale 
the coming week? 

Eduardo. Yes, Father. 

Father Serra. The move is wise. The land will soon 
supply their wants more generously. 

Exeunt Father Serra and Gov. Fages. 

Eduardo. How poor the mail facilities have been. 

Manuel. Yes, when one 's on an Indian campaign 
His correspondence must be limited. 

Eduardo. What have you heard from Spain? 

Manuel. There 's 

nothing new; 
My mother 's well but father feels his age. 
You got my letter saying Agata 
Was married? 

Eduardo. Yes, she wedded very well. 

Manuel. I 've only one unmarried sister left. 

Eduardo. Yes, so you have. Well, you have risen fast; 
I am so glad to hear of your success: 
I feel it 's not to be a distant day 
When it will please his majesty, our king, 
To place you here high in authority. 

Manuel. Ah, should it be thus ordered so, that you 
Are president and I executive, 



ACT I. IT 

I know that we will never differ on 

These much vexed questions of the Church and State. 

Eduardo, There, Manuel, is all this not a shame? 
What storms at times beat round the Holy Cross. 
Our noble, wise, far-seeing president, 
Who 's most enthused to spread abroad the light 
And found more mission churches on the coast, 
Is constantly kept back for want of help; 
Don Pedro should co-operate with us, 
Instead of that his Excellency hopes 
Forever to destroy or maim the rules 
And system that have built the Missions up, 
And make the Clergy ask of him their laws 
In California. Can you tell me 
Who pioneers the way to lands unknown, 
And plants the seed of civilized control? 
Who sends abroad those men that oft become 
The martyrs for the cause of holy truths? 
Who struggles w T ith the Indian, to give 
His soul the blessings of a nobler faith? 
Who ever thrives through grace of tenets true, 
In places where all others failure meet? 
And who a universal love commands, 
Won by its purpose, system and its creed? 
To all these questions there 's but one response: 
The Church of Rome! 

Manuel. All that you say is true; 

And I regret Fages is so opposed. 

Eduardo. You have his confidence, you J ll help us some? 

Manuel I '11 push my aid to the extent allowed, 
But in my office I must be discreet. 



18 FATHER JUNIPERO SERRA. 

Eduardo. I know discretion must remain your rule, 
And though I ask you to assist our plans, 
Do not do so and be unjust to him; 
The Church gains not its rights dishonestly. 
Ah, Manuel, I love this savage land, 
There is so much to do; look o'er the miles 
Of mountain chain, and vale, and endless plain, 
Which virgin ground no white has ever trod: 
Think of the countless souls to be redeemed; 
What noble opportunities for us 
In the near future of this western world. 

Ma?zueL The vista is a most attractive one. 
How proud I 'd be to know that you were called 
'His Eminence, the Cardinal;' strive on! 

Eduardo. There, do not speculate upon my end, 
For where is my beginning? 

Manuel You are right, 

Because the more one dwells on sentiment 
The harder do the trials of life appear. 

Eduardo. If supposition were to us the truth, 
What unsubstantial things would rule the world. 

Manuel. Your life, I judge must be a peaceful one. 

Eduardo. My life 's a quiet one and glides along 
In channels of obscurity and peace; 
Devoid of common stormy incidents, 
Its elements would tiresome annals make: 
I study, meditate, and help to keep 
The Mission books, and as we 're short of help, 
I 'm secretary to his Reverence. 

Manuel A restful life, I 've often longed for that; 
I weary sometimes of the stormy life 



ACT I. 19 

The soldier of the line must undergo: 
I most prefer the station I now hold, 
That 's garrisoned within the capital. 
But of your future, have you that denned? 

Eduardo. My future is unquestioned by myself; 
The coming year a novice I shall be 
In San Fernando College, Mexico. 
Our Padre Serra is to me a guide; 
He took compassion on my lonely life, 
When father died. 

Manuel. Now quite two years ago. 

How time retreats. 

Eduardo. Yes, then he said to me, 

"Eduardo, you are now alone, you have 
No brothers, sisters, or near relatives; 
Come live with me, I '11 be your counselor." 

Manuel. You 're fortunate in having such a man 
To help you through these years. 

Eduardo. Indeed I am, 

I 'm doubly fortunate, for I have you; 
Your friendship and regard to me is much. 

Manuel Eduardo, friend, I feel the same toward you, 
I know it is returned. 

Eduardo. Yes, Manuel, 

It is returned, and may it ever be. 

Manuel. What of the fair Dolores, that I 've met? 
She came from Barcelona? 

Eduardo. No, you heard 

No doubt our native town was once her home. 
The don came from Madrid to Monterey 
Just after you had left us for the South, 



20 FA THER JUNIPERO SERRA. 

To join Don Pedro, which was — let me think— 

Manuel The month succeeding our arrival here. 

Eduardo. O, yes. 

Manuel. His daughter is a charming girl 

Eduardo. Dolores is a good girl and devout. 
I Ve known her from the time she first arrived. 

Manuel. I came two days ago, I met her then. 

Eduardo. Her mother has been dead some seven years. 

Manuel. Eduardo, did you ever love? 

Eduardo. Love? Yes, 

Indeed I have. 

Manuel Aside. The governor was right. To Eduardo. 
So you have loved. Whom do you love, old friend? 

Eduardo. Whom, Manuel? I love the Lord above, 
I love the Fathers that teach us His words, — 

Manuel. A noble answer, friend. You never loved 
A woman? 

Eduardo. Yes, my mother, Manuel. 

Manuel. A proper adoration. Aside. Wrong, Fages, 
I '11 have no rival for her hand in him. 

Eduardo. O, while it is in mind, his Reverence 
Wished me to see the adjutant upon 
A matter, so I 41 leave you for awhile. 

Manuel All right, Eduardo, I '11 see you again. 

Exit Eduardo. 

The sun appears escorted by the moon, 

To look is to be lost, I would be lost. 

Depart my heart. How graceful she does move. 

Enter Donas Dolores and Barbara. Do not see Majiuel. 



ACT L 21 

Dolores. That is appropriate. Barbara; I am often in 
those moods. I sometimes think I will live and die 
unloved. 

Manuel. Aside. Not while I am in Monterey. 
Dona Barbara. Surely. Dolores, you have no occa- 
sion to think that. 

Manuel. Aside. Not in the least. 
Dolores. I know, I know: I have many friends among 
the gentlemen. 

Manuel Aside. Rivals: 
Dolores. The}' are all liked by me — 
Manuel. Aside. All! 
Dolores. But no one do I feel I love. 
Manuel. Aside. Then I do not inspire love on sight. 
I often wondered if I did. 

Dolores. And were I forced to choose I could blindly 
pick one from the lot and have no fear of making a 
mistake. 

Manuel. Aside. What an interesting lot of men in 
Monterey. 

Dona Barbara. You will not waver when you meet 
your fate. 

Manuel. Aside. If that ? s the case, my cause is lost. 
Dolores. Possibly, and yet my love may be of the 
progressive kind. 

Manuel. Aside. A chance remains! 
Dolores. Not of the love on sight, nor yet the kind 
where one must learn to love. 

Manuel. Aside. What variety the passion has! 

Dona Barbara. What is the other kind? 

Dolores. That sweet unconsciousness of it that ripens 



22 FA THER JUNIPERO SERRA. 

into !ove on long acquaintance, it is the best and lasts 
the longest. 

Manuel. Aside. I wish I had met her about ten years 
ago. 

Dona Barbara. The lottery when tried will tell. 

Manuel. Aside. How very wise she is. 

Dolores. Do not speak as if love was an art to be 
experimented with. I shall never love but once, and 
when I do, it will be love. 

Manuel. Aside. O Fortune, smile on me. 

Dona Barbara. Coming in? Seiiora Fages wishes 
you to sing for her this afternoon. 

Dolores. I will be in soon. 

Dona Barbara. Very well. ExiL 

Dolores plays Guitar and sings. 

What more allays love 's groundless fears, 
When from the shadowed eve in song 
Breaks softly sweet on listening ears. 
The vows for which fond lovers long. 

There hidden by day's curtain, night, 

In low andante speaks the fate 
That leads two souls from dark to lights 

What happiness those chords create. 

For 'neath some ancient cypress limb 
He stands, and sings of constant ties ; 

Of love I 'd dream till stars grow dim 
And stately night for morning dies. 



ACT I. 23 

Loves charm enhances every bar, 
These happy hours too swiftly rmi; 

Fain would I hear that sweet guitar 

Till ' Good night' greets the morning sun. 

When Time's light footfalls die away 
And parting youth its age has hailed, 

Of such sweet eves that close the day, 
Say not of me, i Remembrayice failed? 

Manuel. "Say not of me, 'Remembrance failed.' " 

Dolores. Why, Don Manuel! how you startled me. 

Manuel. Forgive your willing slave. 

Dolores. This time, but I would call you friend. 

Ma?iuel. You favor me, though he who is your friend 
would be your slave. 

Dolores. As you select, Sefior. But what was it you 
-first remarked? 

Manuel. "Say not of me, 'Remembrance failed.*' " 

Dolores. Of what? 

Manuel. Two things. 

Dolores. The first? 

Manuel. The longing that the song expressed. I 
shall remember that you love the serenade. 

Dolores. I do. 

Manuel. Expect me then. 

Dolores. I shall be pleased to hear you sing. And 
now the other? 

Manuel. I would remember a sweet example of the 
only joy in life. 

Dolores. And only one? There are many I am sure. 



24 



FATHER J UNI PERO SERRA. 



Manuel There is but one. 

Dolores. I should like to know of it. 

Manuel. A woman's voice. 

Dolores. What makes you think so? 

Manuel. I heard you sing. 

DoLres. Now, Senor, my voice would hardly cause — 

Manuel. Perfection needs no apology. 

Dolores. Indeed! Have I attained that coveted end? 

Manuel. In every grace composing woman's charms. 

Dolores. Captain, will you receive advice? 

Manuel. You would honor me to give it. 

Dolores. Then go to court immediately. 

Manuel Why, Senorita? 

Dolores. Though hardly an adept in the art of flattery, 
in fact I believe this is a first attempt, still you show 
great promise, it would make your fortune in time. 

Manuel. I would go — but for one thing. 
And what is that? 

I should have to leave good company 
You would find better. 
Impossible, for from perfection there is no 



Dolores. 

Manuel. 

Dolores. 

Manuel. 
appeal. 

Dolores. 

Manuel. 

Dolores. 

Manuel. 

Dolores. 

Manuel. 

Dolores. 
of flattery; 
cerity. 



You are improving. 

Why not, I have a teacher mistress of the art. 

The pupil is an able one. 

In errors and in faults. 

You desire to excel? 

That I may pay you graceful compliments. 

Then remember subtilty is the character 

for lavish praise incites suspicions of insin- 



ACT I. 



25 



Manuel. Did my well-deserved and well-intentioned 
compliments seem insincere? 
Dolores. I imagine so, Senor. 

Manuel. They were true expressions of my heart, 
and I am sure you will accept them for their worth. 
Woman and flattery are not antagonists. 
Dolores. I fear your proverb is at fault. 
How so? 
Give the all-sweeping proverb an occasional 



Manuel. 
Dolores. 
exception. 
Manuel. 
Dolores. 
Manuel. 
Dolores. 
Manuel. 
Dolores. 
Manuel. 
Dolores. 



I see it needs a saving clause. 

Is your taste an admired one? 

My comrades call me, "Judge." 

Then, judge, you have been bribed. 

In what way? 

To tell me what you have. 

You are right, I have been bribed. 

Now confess your object. Was it not to 
gain my regard? 

Manuel. Though I would cherish that as the price- 
less treasure of my life; it was your beauty that urged 
me to flattery. 

Dolores. And my perfections? 

Caused me to make my praise so forcible. 

I wonder if my father or Barbara think as 



Manuel. 

Dolores. 
you? 

Manuel. 

Dolores. 
for — 

Manuel. 

Dolores. 



Our relatives will ever find a fault. 

Some flatter by a smile, a look, a word, 

I need a phrase! 

Don Miguel once said I had a pretty hand; 



26 FA THER JUNIPERO SERRA. 

Don Juan remarked of sparkling eyes; Senor Pacheco 
ventured comment on a little foot; and others beauty- 
praising bent, have smiled a favor, glanced a tribute, or 
risked a modest compliment; and I believed their offer- 
ings: but — 

Manuel. They had poor taste if they could say no 
more. 

Dolores. But you go to extremes, and say each grace 
is perfect in itself. 

Manuel. Am I not right? 

Dolores. Far from being so. 

Manuel. You do not see what others note, 

Dolores. The mirror tells me all. 

Manuel. And does it not reflect perfection when you 
look? 

Dolores. No. 

Manuel. Discard the glass, its faults are serious. 

Dolores. The Senora Gobernadora is calling us. 

Manuel. We must obey. 

Dolores. Do you remain for any length of time in 
Monterey? 

Manuel. If I had to wish the time, I'd say for life ; but 
being at the king's command, I will say it is indefinite. 
I can only hope that there will be many such days as 
this, in store for me. 

Dolores, This afternoon is worthy of the morn, for 
that was matchless too. 

Manuel. I was not referring to the day, Sefiorita. 

Dolores. Your companion? 

Manuel. My companion. 

Dolores. So you like Monterey. 



ACT I. 27 

Manuel. Although it is a charming place, I love her 
people more. 

Dolores. The ladies in particular? 

Manuel. A lady in particular. Exeunt. 

Enter Father Serra and Don Pablo. 

Don Pablo. I 've noticed that this Captain Alvarez 
Is paying marked attention to my child, 
Although it 's but the second time they 've met. 
About his family I am informed, 
He 's from a noble line — important fact. 
But then our growing youth of gentle blood 
Have not the isolation found at home, 
So of his habits and his character 
I 'd like to know; perhaps your Reverence 
Has knowledge of his ways? 

Father Serra. Wise query, sir. 

Though confidant to our opponent, yet 
I cannot other then speak well of him. 
A soldier, still he 's not a brawling one 
So far as I have seen or heard report. 
And then he seems as virtuous to-day 
As when I knew him some two years ago: 
He is Eduardo's friend — that favors him. 
Yet it is with regret I have observed 
That smiling innocence of face and ways 
Announce not always innocence of heart; 
He 's with a man who '11 stoop to any means 
To gain an end,- — environment you know 
Has much to do with moulding character, — 
Still he may be above that influence. 



28 



FATHER JUNIPERO SERRA. 



Don Pablo. He seems to be a most ambitious youth. 
Father Serra. But I am not one to call ambition, 
crime, 

If one pursues an honest course to rise. 

I think him worthy of your kind regard. 
Don Pablo. I thank you. Father, now I '11 rest at ease. 




TTJI in% 



Enter Eduardo. 



Don Pablo. No doubt, Eduardo, you are glad to meet 
Your friend again? 

Eduardo. Indeed I am, Senor. 

Father Serra. And he is glad to be in Monterey? 



ACT L 20 

EJiiardo. He loves the capital, your Reverence; 
Bat at San Carlos he would ever dwell. 

Don Pablo. Few can resist the fascination there, 
And as for me I 'm anything but proof. 
How wise has been your choice of mission sites; 
San Carlos ever will attract the eye. 
One pleasure of my life is to observe 
The sunrise o'er the distant Gabilans. 

This early morn I gazed on Nature's face, 
Around me in a dim and hazy light 
Lay Mission fields; adjoining on my right, 

Built by the sons of a converted race, 

San Carlos loomed in all its hallowed grace. 

Above and from the south there came in sight, 
Wild geese that northward flew in noisy-flight, 

Till in the misty air I lost their trace. 

To hear the Padre read an early Mass, 

The Indians came, and blest, then bending low 

They prayed; the service o'er, I saw them pass 
To labor, walking single file and slow: 

The mist had gone, like breath upon a glass, 

For o'er the range appeared a crimson glow. 

Father Serra. How constantly I 've wished, and 
worked, and prayed, 
To see such early-morn devotionals 
In every vale of California. 
But nine far-scattered missionary posts 
Through which the great Redeemer has to speak, 
Are the results of fifteen years of work. 



30 FATHER JUNIPERO SERRA. 

Don Pablo. Does not your Reverence expect to found 
A line of missions to the east of us? 

Father Serra. I have expected to for many years. 

Don Pablo. I 'm sure San Juan Bautista, San Jose, 
Most holy San Miguel, and San Raphael, 
Would kindly smile on California, 
Were missions titled with their holy names. 

Father Serra. Ah, not alone the blessed saints re- 
marked, 
But others of the Faith: — the Mystery, 
La Purfsima de Concepcion, 
Then Santa Cruz, and Santa Barbara, 
Nuestra Sefiora de la Soledad, 
Santa Ynez, San Francisco Solano, 
There 's San Fernando and San Louis Rey, 
Aye, San Antonio de Pala — all — 
Should, — shall have missions dedicated them! 

Don Pablo. What causes this delay, your Reverence? 

Father Serra. We came to Alta California, 
With promise from the State to found, equip, 
And guard for us, new missions by the score; 
Now that the country has been settled up 
So to withstand the Russians southward march; 
The State relapses into lethargy, 
Forgetful of its pledge. 

Don Pablo. So that is what 

Retards the propagation of the Faith? 

Father Serra. Just so. None but Neglect's regardless 
eye 
Observes these countless opportunities: 
So I must fight inaction coupled to 



ACT /. 31 

The opposition of a governor, 
Whose policy is secular control. 

Don Pablo. A state of things that 's most deplorable. 

Father Serra. Don Pablo, it has been a fear with me, 
That when the Padre pioneers would die 
Or age retire them to Mexico; 
Would pass away the vigor to resist 
Encroachments and delinquencies of state: 
But here is one in whom I Ve centered hopes; 
For when Eduardo is ordained, he '11 push 
With all the zeal of youthful energy, 
The spirit of our views. 

Eduardo. I know them well; 

And this shall be the mission of my life. 

Don Pablo. A future 's opened to the faithful priest 
In these extensive wilds. You feel assured 
You would succeed in churchly work? 

Eduardo. I do. 

Oft have I felt within, the call Divine. 
I '11 not be tempted to forego my choice. 

Father Serra. Quite right, one must believe they 're 
called to serve. 

Eduardo. May duty ever be allied to me, 
As cross to pyx; or chausable to stole. 

Father Serra. It 's duty to the laws Divine that move 
These countless spheres within that waste of space; 
And as His works inanimate obey, 
Then so should they, with His fair form endowed, 
Be not delinquent to the given Word. 

Enter Gov. Fages. • 



82 FA THER JUNIPERO SERRs 1 . 

Father Serra. Governor, is Lieutenant Gonzales 
here to-day? 

Gov. Fages. I left him within. 

Father Serra. To Eduai'do. You saw the adjutant? 

Eduardo. Yes, Father, I have the data you require. 

Father Serra. I must see the lieutenant, gentlemen. 
Come, son. Exeunt. 

Don Pablo. A bright and pious youth, the Father's 
protege. 

Gov. Fages. It seems the thoughtful lean to religion. 

Don Pablo. Governor, I have decided at last to re- 
main in California. 

Gov. Fages. Indeed! I am glad to hear this. 

Don Pablo. I understand California is becoming 
favorably known among the caballeros of old Spain. 

Gov. Fages. Very good, we shall not lack for society. 
Your family like the West? 

Don Pablo. They beg me to remain. 

Gov. Fages. A weighty inducement. 

Don Pablo. Besides, my health, for which I came, 
you know, has greatly improved. 

Gov. Fages. That is all the more reason you should 
stay with us. But you will make a final visit to Madrid? 

Don Pablo. To settle my affairs, and pay a parting 
mark of homage to his majesty. 

Gov. Fages. Aside. And whisper praises of a most 
devoted governor. To Don Pablo. When do you 
expect to make the journey? 

Don Pablo. The coming year. 

Gov. Fages. In what will you engage now you 're to 
be a Californian? 



ACT I. 33 

Don Pablo. My regular pursuit, cattle raising; which 
I hope to undertake on a more extensive scale. So, Don 
Pedro. I am here to make request — 

Gov. Pages. Name the tract. Sefior, and it is yours. 

Don Pablo. The land on which the adjacent rancheria 
stands. 

Gov. Pages. Aside. Mission lands! To Don Pablo. 
Shall be Valencia property. 

Don Pablo. Thanks, Don Pedro ; thanks. It is good 
grazing ground. 

Gov. Pages. Excellent. Aside. Serra spoke of cul- 
tivating a part of it, there must be no delay. To Don 
Pablo. This property is beyond the four league limit of 
Pueblo lands — somewhat out of my jurisdiction — a non- 
important fact; for I shall recommend your petition to 
the viceroy, and request the grant be made a regular 
concession instead of provisional, as many now are made. 

Don Pablo. You are very kind. 

Gov. Pages. Don Manuel can make the papers out 
to-night, and I can send them on the vessel that leaves 
to-morrow for the South. 

Don Pablo. I '11 hear from them before the summer 's 
over? 

Gov. Pages. Long before. Count on the land, you 
will be granted it. 

Don Pablo. I should like to inspect the tract moie 
fully than I have; could you spare an escort some day 
the coming week? 

Gov. Pages. My idle soldiers are impatient to respond. 

Don Pablo. I am under heavy obligations to Don 
Pedro. 



34 FATHER JUNIPERO SERRA. 

Gov. Fages. I pray you make no mention of a bond. 
Aside. One step nearer secularization; confusion to the 
president; the reciprocating friendship of Valencia: are 
gains that come upon me unannounced; so on its swift 
ascendant course my star of fortune brighter grows, as 
coming months bid parting ones farewell. 

Enter Manuel. 

Manuel. Don Pablo, our Sencra Gobernadora was 
asking for you; she is telling the story of her journey 
across Mexico. 

Don Pablo. By your leave, gentlemen, I will wait 
on the lady. Exit. 

Ma?iuel. Where seems the most oft' times exists the 
least. 

Gov. Fages. What have you discovered? 

Ma?iuel. That Eduardo is in love. 

Gov. Fages. So I said. 

Manuel With the Church. 

Gov. Fages. I do not doubt it. 

ManueL But not Dolores. 

Gov. Fages. How did you learn this? 

Manuel. I questioned him. 

Gov. Fages. Brilliant! Manuel, brilliant! 

ManueL Governor, for once you are deceived. 

Gov. Fages. Are you aware a man can fall in love 
and not know it? 

Manuel. Never heard of an instance. 

Gov. Fages. I want you to dance the fandango with 
Dolores. 

Manuel. A great pleasure. 



ACT I. 35 

Gov. Fages. Dona Eulaliawill bring the dance about. 
I arranged it as an opening for you, and incidentally you 
may note the admiration I attribute to Eduardo. 

Manuel Many thanks, and I will watch him closely, 
provided that Dolores does not absorb my beauty- 
seeking gaze. 

Gov. Fages. I have gained a point with Don Pablo. 

Manuel That is welcome. What is it? 

Gov. Fages. He asked me for the San Carlos ranch- 
eria tract that Serra spoke about cultivating. The trans- 
port leaves to-morrow, and with it goes my recommen- 
dation that the land be granted him. 

Manuel Does Father Serra know of this? 

Gov. Fages. No, and Valencia will not speak of it; 
he is very reticent about his private affairs. 

Manuel To grant this land will be quite in keeping 
with your secularization policy. 

Gov. Fages. Certainly it will! Nothing will ruin the 
Missions like spoliation of their lands. Besides I could 
not be more fortunate, for can't you see, he will feel 
grateful for my help, and when I need a word at court 
he will respond; — you know Don Pablo's father once 
saved the king's life. 

Manuel. No! 

Gov. Fages. Yes, and that is why he stands so high 
at court. 

Manuel. Well, this is fortunate! 

Gov. Fages. As long as his Catholic Majesty does not 
look kindly on the friars' control of the temporalities, or 
anything else in fact, so much more fortunate for us; so 
when he sees I have worked for him he will reward. 



36 FATHER JUNIPERO SERRA. 

Manuel. You are a diplomat. 

Gov. Fages. Time will decide the value of my diplo- 
macy. 

Manuel I hope we may succeed. 

Gov. Fages. We shall succeed! 

Manuel. My sword! my name! my honor! to the 
cause. 

Gov. Fages. Win Dolores, that is the part you are to 
play. 

Manuel. I understand Father Serra is here on official 
business. 

Gov. Fages. Yes, I have seen him, but he desires to con- 
fer again; you may remain during the interview. I had 
better see him now. 

Enter Eduardo. 

Is Father Serra engaged? 

Eduardo. I left his Reverence conversing with Cap- 
tain Soler and Lieutenant Gonzales. 

Enter Donas Eulalia and Dolores. 

Gov. Fages. Very well, we can see the Father later. 

Dona Eulalia. Do we have music? Senorita Dolores 
will dance the cachucha. 

Gov. Fages. You save me making the request; but 
let us have the fandango. Will Senorita dance with 
the captain? 

Dolores. I should be pleased to, your Excellency. 

Manuel. I am honored. 

Enter Don Pablo. 



ACT L 37 

Gov. Fages. Is Dona Barbara within? We are going 
to have a fandango. 

Don Pablo. I will call her. Exit. 

Dona Enlalia. What fine days you have in California. 

Manuel. The climate is most attractive. 

Dolores. So much like sunny Spain. 

Dona Enlalia. I hear Father Serra contemplates 
another journey. 

Eduardo. Yes, Sefiora, there are many confirmations 
to be made, and Santa Clara is to be dedicated in May. 

Enter Dona Barbara and Don Pablo. 

Gov. Fages. Sefiora. will you play a fandango for us? 

Dona Barbara. With pleasure, your Excellency. 

Gov. Fages. The fandango is my delight. It recalls 
the pleasures of my youth. To Manuel. Watch 
Eduardo and be convinced. To Dona Barbara. Ready, 
Sefiora. 

Dona Barbara plays guitar, Ma?tuel and Dolores dance- 
Ed uar do watches Dolores with admiring gaze. 
Dance over. 

Dona Enlalia. They were very graceful. 
Dona Barbara. They kept good time. 
Gov. Fages. To one who played in perfect tune. 
Dona Barbara. Thank you, Governor. 

Enter Father Serra. 

Doha Enlalia. How absorbed in thought Don Edu- 
ardo always seems, Father. 



38 FA THER JUNIPERO SERRA. 

Father Serra. He is very thoughtful; better were all 
young men as serious. How is your son? 

Dona Eulalia. Pedrito is now quite well; but, Father, 
you do not look to be in the best of health. 

Father Serra. I shall not see the entry of the coming 
year. 

Dona Eulalia. No, no, I cannot believe you are de- 
clining so. 

Father Serra. It is that final failing from which there 
is no recovery. 

Don Pablo. Senora, I am anxious to hear the rest of 
your narrative. 

Dona Barbara. You stopped at a most interesting 
part. 

Dona Eulalia. I am glad you liked it. Coming, 
Dolores? You were interested. 

Dolores. Very much so. 

Exemit Donas Eulalia and Barbara, and Don Pablo. 

Manuel. This has been a great pleasure. I hope for 
a repetition. 

Dolores. Senor is a charming dancer. 
Manuel. A novice beside his partner. 

Exit Dolores. 

Gov. Fages. Aside to Manuel. Did you note your 
friend? 

Manuel. Yes, but I think it is only admiration; none 
could help admiring her. 

Gov. Fages. You will yet be convinced, 

Father Serra. Aside to Eduardo. My son, is my com- 



ACT I. 39 

munication to the viceroy complete, so that I can forward 
it to-morrow if the governor refuses my request? 

Edua? r do. Yes, Father, I wrote in the information I 
obtained from the adjutant-inspector, so all wanting is 
your signature. Will you sign? 

Father Serra. Keep it, son, I do not need it yet. Now, 
Governor, have you leisure? 

Gov. Pages. I am at your service. To Manuel. You 
are the audience, so be amused. 

Father Serra. What I 'm to say will take but little 
time; 
In substance it 's the same as you have heard: 
The first and most important point of all — 
This very pressing want of Mission guards. 
I ask again, consider this request; 
The men we have are poor apologies: 
It seems we always have the poorest drilled. 
Conversion is retarded by this want 
Of adequate protection to our homes. 

Gov. Fages. Give you more soldiers, that I cannot 
do: 
I wish you 'd let this tiresome subject drop. 

Father Serra. Will you detail some men to follow up 
The neophytes, and bring them back to us? 

Gov. Fages. I have no men to hunt apostates now. 

Father Serra. Desertion is a serious offence; 
You let them go, and so encourage it. 

Gov. Fages. I do not make your converts, renegades. 

Father Serra. You do not advocate the fault direct, 
But tolerate the wrong, which is as bad. 

Gov. Fages. You take entirely too much care of them ; 



40 FATHER JUNIPERO SERRA 

They would improve and do as well beneath 
The military law and State's decree. 

Father Serra. The State would educate but never 
does, 
Its education lacks religious thought, 
So teaches to the youthful mind in vain. 
No one is learned, knowing naught of Faith; 
Let Indians grow committed to the State's 
Paternal care, ard there will issue forth 
A class of beings ignorant and poor; 
Conditioned lower than they were by birth: 
And in the place of peace and Christian life* 
God-fearing natives, virtuous and good; 
There is the bowl, the riot of the camp, 
While flaunting sin its late hour revels keep: 
Then comes a fast disintegration, and 
From customed union do they drift away 
As seeds are swept by trades to other climes; 
The wreckage of a race that then remains, 
Must see extinction overcome their tribe. 

Gov. Fages. How dismal do you make their future 
out. 
I cannot help you now — I may next year. 
The more that leave the less there are to feed. 
They '11 all return in time, so let them go. 

Father Serra. Never! can I consent to lose one soul, 
That by salvation would that soul reclaim! 
'T would be a crime for us to disregard 
Such heavy loss brought on through negligence: 
To see one poor misguided Indian 
Return to those un fathomed darkened depths 



ACT I. 41 

From whence his soul emerged. It must not be! 

Gov- Fages. Though souls be lost or saved, I 've not 
the men; 
I need the few I have for other things. 
Aside. If nothing else, to drill within the fort. To 
Father Serra. Pass to the next request. 
Aside. And be refused. 

Father Serra. Will you equip a part} 7 to select 
The mission sites for the interior? 

Gov. Fages. For this great scheme I 'm also unpre- 
pared. 
Father Serra. Well, what of the new missions' for 
the South; 
La Purisima, Santa Barbara? 
Are you prepared to have them founded now? 

Gov. Fages. I shall postpone that work another 

year. 
Father Serra. The Channel with its grand induce- 
ments must 
Be then neglected for another year? 

Gov. Fages. I gave my ruling on this old request. 
Father Serra. How long do you allow the Church 
to live 
In California? 

Gov. Fages. The law forbids 
My- 

Father Serra. Not the law, you mean the governor: 
The man who idles precious time away. 

Gov. Fages. Aside. Ah, idle, am I? Well, not in a 
plot 
That has your ruin for its pleasant aim. To Father Serra. 



42 FATHER JUNIPERO SERRA. 

It is this never ending restless strife 
To make conversion foremost in all moves, 
That wearies me; I do not toil like you 
And I will gain as much. 

Father Scrra. Without a doubt 

You may accomplish all the ends you seek; 
But I would shun the methods that you use. 

Gov. Fages. My methods hardly seem in high repute 
In California. That 's bad for you: 
The king, though, deems them ample for his needs. 
You should forget there is a governor, 
Then you would not be forced to make requests. 

Father Serra. And these requests I make are but the 
rights 
That have been granted us, and you withhold. 
I 'd like oblivion upon the fact 
That you must serve the king as governor: 
Your office, like a number in the State, 
Is far beyond the virtues of the man. 

Gov. Fages. I 'm hearing this! 

Father Serra. Well, I intend you shall: 

For I would never say behind your back 
What I would hesitate to speak to you. 

Gov- Fages. Withhold your comments! — for I asked 
them not. 

Father Serra. Like most officials you dislike the 
truth; 
But those whom you would serve will welcome it. 
I had you once removed — 

Gov. Fages. You '11 not again! 

Father Serra. For reservation of the friars' rights; 



ACT I. 



43 



And had I now the health to journey south 

And lay before the viceroy a report 

Of how affairs are here administered; 

You 'd not be governor another month. 

But as it is I have a substitute. 

The documents, Eduardo. Now, a pen. 

Exit Eduardo. 

Gov. Fages. Complain! complain! for I shall answer 
you! 
I have complaints about your ways as well. 




ACT II. 

SCENE I. Exterior of Don Pablo's Home. After- 
noon, Late. June 3, 1784. 
Enter Father Serra, Eduardo and Ignacio. 

Father Serra. How very welcome is the half- ,vay 
house. 
I hope Don Pablo 's not away from home. 
Announce we have arrived, Ignacio. 

Igiiacio. Yes, Father. Exit 

Eduardo. Do we stop here for the night, 

Your Reverence? 

Father Serra. Yes, for the hour is late: 

San Carlos finds us home to-morrow noon. 

Eduardo. Aside. And I can look upon her face 
again. 

Enter Don Pablo and Ignacio. 

Don Pablo. Ah, Father, welcome; and Eduardo too. 
Now I regret the pleasure I have missed, 
To act your escort from the capital: 
My willing horses ever wait your mount. 

Father Serra. You 're very kind, Don Pablo, but you 
know 
The friars never ride. The road was good 
Along the coast; all 's well at Monterey. 
I missed the governor, they said he left 



ACT IL SCENE I. 45 

To visit you: I hope he still remains. 

Don Pablo. The governor is here; he '11 stop three 
days; 
He is attended by Don Manuel: 
And the Senora also came with him. 

Father Serra. I shall be very glad to meet them all. 

D071 Pablo. Now, Father, will you enter and take 
rest? 
My house is yours. 

Father Serra, I do feel somewhat tired. 

Eduardo, will you come? 

Eduardo. I would remain 

Without, a little while, your Reverence. 

Exeunt Father Serra aiid Don Pablo. 

Ignacio, whom did you see within? 

Ignacio. The governor and Captain Alvarez. 

Eduardo. I meant the ladies, did you see her there? 

Ignacio. You mean the Dona Bar — 

Eduardo. Dolores. 

Ignacio. Yes, — 

Eduardo. Now leave me for awhile, Ignacio. 

Ignacio. Joaquin the arriero is my friend; 
Should I be needed I will be with him. Exit. 

Eduardo. For months the phantom of her lovely face 
Has held a place beside my daily prayers: 
I who have been so wedded to the Church. 
How strange it seems. 'T was admiration first; 
Then grew that longing for companionship: 
The revelation followed on the day 
I helped the Father don the alb; the act 



46 .FATHER JUNIPERO SERRA. 

Brought thoughts of my novitiate to come; 

And then I found I could not say farewell; 

I was in love, — how sweet the moment seemed: 

It then occurred to me that I had sinned; 

I prayed and in that prayer there came a thought, 

'That pure and holy love was not a sin; 

What He creates can never be a wrong. ' 

But when I laid that vestment in the chest, 

It seemed I laid aside a noble work: 

O, what a bitter argument commenced; 

For one has but to choose of diverse paths, 

To lay foundation for the mind's unrest. 

It 's over now. I '11 find her and confess. Exit. 

Enter Donas Eulalia and Dolores. 

Dona Eulalia. I 'd favor him if I were you. 

Dolores. Why so ? 

Dona Eulalia. Because he will be prominent in time. 
Don Pedro favors him; when he does that 
With one, his fortune is assured. 

Dolores. I hope 

He '11 always be in favor then. 

Dona Eulalia. I think, 

Dolores, you would like to see him rise. 

Dolores. No more than I would any one. 

Dona Eulalia. Who knows 

But some day he might ask — 

Dolores. Perchance— some day. 

Enter Eduardo, crossing back of stage- 

Eduardo. She never is alone of late. I'll write. 
The pen is best, my courage might depart. Exit 



ACT II SCENE I. 47 

Dolores. Now there is one who surely will be heard. 

Dona Eulalia. Yes, he is under the right tutelage. 
Here 's one as worthy, and who is assured 
Of honors from the State and from the king. 

Enter Manuel. 

Manuel. Well, ladies, A Dios. 

Dolores. What, going now? 

Manuel. Yes, still not far; I will be back at eve. 

Dona Eulalia. But you must sing, you promised me 
you would. 

Manuel. Official business. 

Dona Eulalia. Sing us just one song. 

Manuel. Will not manana do? 

Dona Eulalia. No, no, Senor. 

Dolores. Here is the instrument, I 'm sure you will. 

Dona Eulalia. I love to hear one sing that has a 
voice. 

Manuel. I have a voice for calling orders out: 
I also have a cold; I 'm always hoarse 
When I am asked to sing. I better go 
My two league trip, far up among the hills; 
And when I 'm there in clearer atmosphere 
I '11 sing to you a song of love or war, 
Or, better still, of woman's constancy; 
And let the distant echoes come to you 
Well tempered and improved by passing winds. 

Dona Eulalia. Now that excuse, Senor, will not avail: 
As wife to your superior, I say, 
Don Manuel, you must. 

Dolores. Hear that? Commence. 



48 FATHER JUNlPERO SERRA. 

Ma?iuel. You know I have a grave .suspicion that 
My auditors will sadly slip away, 
Before initial notes, crescendo, rise. 

Dolores. That punishment is not in store for you. 

Dona Eulalia. Your voice calls not for such severe 
neglect. 
Sing of the sea. 

Dolores. O yes, I love the see. 

Mantie I plays guitar and sings. 

O dwell 'mid the maritime pines; 

Go live near the sound of the sea; 
On sands where the waves find their shrines; 
Let grief to forgetfulness flee. 

Its wild stormy moods often seem 

Like times in ones life that arc past; 

Its calms, like the lulls which redeem, 
The life that misfortune would blast. 

But sympathy sweet one can trace 
In waves which so ceaselessly roll; 

The sad in the sea find a grace, 
And rest to the deep- burdened soul. 

Yea, dream on the rocks of the shore- 
Heed not the rough blight of the years ; 

But let the great ocean restore 

Hopes lost in the past and in tears. 

When pines to the sea sigh refrain; 

They speak to the wish that is dead; 
The weary will find from the main; 

The light of good hope has not fled. 



ACT II. SCENE I. 49 

Dolores. The song was very sweet. 
Dona Eulalia. Ah, Capitan, 

I thought I heard you say you could not sing. 

Enter Ignacio. 

Ignacio. The governor would see Don Manuel. Exit, 

Manuel. There, there, a reprimand; and you the 
cause. 
You kept me captive here. 

Dona Eulalia. I '11 intercede. 

Dolores* Tell him it was our fault. 

Manuel. Of course it was. 

Beware the wrath of the executive. 

Dona Eulalia. We 're not afraid of him. 

Dolores. Do tell him that. 

I hope your ride will be a pleasant one. 

Dona Eulalia. I 'm sure it will. 

Manuel. Thanks. A Dios y again. Exit. 

Dolores. Senora, you must see my garden now, 
I have so many new varieties. 
There is a lovely orchid from Peru, 
That calls an Eastern Cordillera, home; 
It 's named the Inca's Heart, white splashed with red. 
My rarest orchid though, the gem of all, 
Grew on a graven god of sacrifice 
In mystic Yucatan. A friend of ours, 
Jose Juares, sent the plants to us. 

Dona Eulalia. Indeed, I wish to see them. Let us 
go. Exeunt. 

Enter Gov. Fages and Manuel. 



50 FATHER JUNIPERO SERRA, 

Gov. Fages. On the road to the rancheria you pass 
San Carlos, avoid it, 

Manuel. I shall. Well, buenas tardes, I may be 
back by Vespers. 

Gov. Fages. Wait, there is no hurry; we have so 
little time together. 

Manuel. Suppose I 'm going to be with you when we 
are at Rancho del Carrasco? 

G/?v. Fages. Bueno, bueno! Most important! How 
are your love affairs? 

Manuel Speak in the singular; I 've only one, I 
want no more. Over two months have passed and no 
encouragement. 

Gov. Fages. Keep it up; make love to her at every 
opportunity; she will get tired and capitulate in time. 

Manuel That is not saying much for my attractions. 

Gov. Fages. If one is not attractive, he must be 
attentive. You are attractive enough. 

Manuel. What is it, then? 

Gov. Fages. Never try to account for whims. Did 
the interpreter accompany us? 

Manuel Yes. 

Gov. Fages. Be sure to take him along. You see how 
important it is to have a private understanding with the 
chief; Don Pablo, the other day, made mention of his 
need of more help, so I determined to supply the want. 

Manuel. An excellent idea. 

Gov. Fages. I had the sergeant bring an extra sword 
which you can present to the chief with some ceremony, 
— give him my regards and promise greater things to 
come. 



ACT II. SCENE I. . 51 

Manuel Very well. I might give him a pair of gloves 
I no longer use. 

Gov. Fages. Contribute those when we have some- 
thing else to ask of him. Obtain not less than ten run- 
away neophytes, and I think you had better let Sergeant 
Verdugo and four men take them first to Monterey, 
then they will appear as Presidio Indians. 

Manuel. He will be pleased when he receives their 
services. 

Gov. Fages. I am winning him step by step; why he 
said not an hour ago, I 'd make a splendid viceroy. 

Manuel. He told the truth, but what occasioned it? 

Gov. Fages. He is displeased with the way Matias 
de Galvez treated a friend of his who lives in Acapulco 
or Mazatlan, I have forgotten which. 

Manuel. Of course you considered it a shame? 

Gov. Fages. It was an outrage in my diplomatic eyes. 

Manuel. And you sympathized? 

Gov. Fages. He is the very picture of injured inno- 
cence that has been comforted. Mark me, before many 
months I will have him so bound by obligations, that 
when the king sends for reports of me, having in view 
an official change, Senor Valencia can inform his maj- 
esty, thus: "I am acquainted with the governor, an 
excellent executive." 

Manuel. The king responds: "He 's an honor to the 
throne; promote Fages." 

Gov. Fages. And Fages rules as commandant-general. 

Manuel. To wait his turn as viceroy; while I — 

Gov. Fages. March on at equal pace, though a little 
in the rear. 



52 . FATHER JUNIPERO SERRA. 

Manuel. To be viceroy when you enjoy the res- 
idencies 

Gov. Fages. Certainly! Everything is looking well 
for us. The Manila galleon will soon be here, and 
when she leaves for San Bias, she carries some new 
charges I am studying up regarding the friars' move- 
ments. 

Manuel. Let no complaint stand unproclaimed. But 
their communication of last Spring may injure us. 

Gov. Fages. I do not think so. 

Enter Don Pablo. 

Don Pablo. Well, gentlemen, I hope the hours pass 
pleasantly. 

Gov. Fages. They do, Senor. 

Manuel. You have the best located rancho in Cali- 
fornia, I like the name, Del Carrasco; it's so appro- 
priate. 

Gov. Fages. I always thought the southern half of 
this peninsula, with this magnificent view of Carmelo 
Bay and the Sierra Santa Lucias, was an ideal situa- 
tion for a hacienda. 

Don Pablo. The very reason I selected it. Senor 
Carrillo on his visit here, first brought it to my notice; 
and Senor Guerrero helped me stock the place. 

Manuel. Did you not say, Don Pedro, that Senor 
Valencia's title to the rancheria tract would soon be up 
from Mexico? 

Gov. Fages. Yes; it will be here the coming month. 

Don Pablo. I feel under great obligations to you, 
Governor. 



ACT II. SCENE I 53 

Gov. Fages. I 'm sure you will find the venture prof- 
itable. 

Manuel. It is the finest property within a radius of 
twenty leagues. 

Don Pablo. I thought the selection good. But what 
is to be done with the rancheria now upon it? That 
has worried me some of late. 

Manuel. Move it off. 

Don Pablo. The Fathers might object. 

Gov. Fages. Charge the Indians rent. 

Don Pablo. I '11 think it over. 

Manuel I will go, it is getting late. 

Gov. Fages. Vamos! 

Manuel. I have a mission to perform so I '11 be ab- 
sent till Vespers. 

Don Pablo. Wait, I will see you off. I '11 return 
directly, Governor. 

Manuel. A Dios. 

Gov. Fages. A Dios. 

Exeunt Do?i Pablo and Manuel. 
My enemy! I '11 smile on him to-day. 
Enter Father Serra. 

Father Serra. Now, Governor, returning to our wish; 
To-day you were to give me your reply. 
What do you say? 

Gov. Fages. It must be, ' No/ again. 

Father Serra. Are you to ever favor us? 

Gov. Fages. As yet 

I 've no authority to give you aid. 



54 FATHER JUNIPERO SERRA. 

Father Serra. This is within your power. 

Gov. Fages. Pardon me — 

Father Serra. How marvelous the office that you 
hold! 
Your power contracts and then expands at will; 
When you could injure us, your sway is great; 
When you could favor us, you 're limited. 
But we will see what our complaints will bring. 

Gov. Fages. I hope the government will do for you. 
I bend to hear the wishes of my king, 
And when I know his wish I know my way: 
The viceroy orders and to him I bow, 
For is he not the king in Mexico? 
I find the laws and they must be enforced: 
He says your mail must not be carried free; 
I think his regulation very wise: 
So where am I to blame? 

Father Serra. No, sir, of late 

He has not ordered so, we hear from him. 
It has been understood a year or more, 
The friars' letters should be carried free; 
Based on the privilege I once obtained: 
But you so far exceed the powers with which 
You were invested by his majesty, 
In your anxiety to injure us; 
That regulations now long obsolete 
Have been revived, and so enlarged upon 
That they become the laws, administered 
With due severity. 

Gov. Fages. How very strange 

This great delusion, I your enemy. 



ACT II. SCENE I. 55 

I 'm your friend and better than you think. 

Father Serra. What ! 

Gov. Fages. It 's a true assertion that I make; 

Sometimes the actions of a friend appear 
The actions of an enemy. 

Father Serra. Stop, stop! 

Don Pedro, stop! and speak no more like that: 
You make yourself a glaring hypocrite. 
A friend to us! O, what hypocrisy! 
There 're times when friends seem to us enemies, 
When striving to protect us from some harm; 
But you are not that kind of friend to us. 

Gov. Fages. I know the good you do, I am your 
friend; 
I 'm always willing to concede, when the — 

Father Serra. Of course, when the concession favors 
you. 
I ask if you are well supplied with arms, 
You answer, " Yes," and only wait the word 
To be of use in crushing savage life; 
Provided, that the venture gives to you 
The reputation of a governor, 
Whose conquests cast a glory on the throne: 
But when I ask for peaceful means to tide 
The flood of savagery around us here; 
Those little things that help conversion much; 
Those slight protections that would do no harm, 
But awe the bold and reckless Indian; 
You then become too helpless to assist, 
And answer in that aggravating way, 



56 FATHER JUNIPERO SERRA. 

Meant to divert the subject, or to tell 
How much you love us for the good we do. 

Gov. Fages. Now, now, when will these constant 
quarrels end? 

Father Serra. When you have given to the Church 
its due. 
Expecting peace, you aim your secret blows. 
The lips, that utter overtures for peace 
Designed in words as you presented now, 
Profane the pax if thereon it were sealed. 
The state affairs are rotten at the core 
For lack of honest-hearted men to rule. 

Gov. Fages- The state affairs as here administered — 
Are just as pure as honesty can make. 

Father Serra. Not in the least are our conclusions 
wrong; 
These schemes of politics need strong reproof: 
To gain ascendancy what ends some men 
Will follow up in way of cunning arts; 
Low subtle plans and dark intrigues for gain; 
Duplicity renamed diplomacy; 
Ends so contemptible they dare not let 
The people know about; ends based upon 
A motto that is secret to themselves; 
Which were it blazoned forth the world would read, 
"We live to grasp position, wealth and power;" 
To which they add so but the conscience hears, 
"The way that we ascend is shrouded black, 
We '11 screen intentions by convenient laws, 
In other words we '11 legalize a crime, 
So silence, silence, silence is the word. 



ACT II SCENE I. - 57 

And then a guileless world will honor us, 

And say of us, 'Gaze on those mighty men, 

How well they earned the honors that we give; 

How fortunate, what spotless lives they lead:' " 

And in the consummation of this work 

They do forget their fellows and their God, 

And so the people have to bow beneath 

The wisdom and dominion of the sword, 

That 's wielded by an army picaroon. 

Talk not to me of purity of state, 

For such a strange condition never has 

And never will exist, so long as man 

Ignores the laws and teachings of the Church. 

Gov. Fages. Now, Father, will you ever be convinced 
That you are wrong? 

Father Serra. I '11 never be convinced. 

Gov. Fages. I '11 tell you what, here 's our respected 
friend; 
But though he leans toward you in kindliness 
More than to me, let him be judge of what 
Is right upon this franking privilege; 
I feel assured he will agree with me. 

Father Serra. Most willingly will I defer to him; 
Though it 's mere pastime, still it will have weight: 
I 'd like to have him know what we endure. 

Enter Don Pablo. 

Don Pablo, you have been appointed judge. 

Gov. Pages. Convince his Reverence that I am right. 

Don Pablo. Am at your service, Father, Governor. 
What may the issue be? Come, go within, 



58 FATHER JUNIPERO SERRA. 

And over some refreshment we '11 decide. 

Gov. Fages. Aside. By this I '11 see whom he will 
patronize: 
If he appreciates what I have done 
For him, my favors then will be his bribe. Exeunt. 

Enter Eduardo. 

Eduardo. Reading letter. "Sefiorita Dolores: Be my 
confessor now. That I love you do not misjudge as a 
sudden fancy, for the infatuation has with it the wealth 
of time. This is not in keeping with the course I intended 
to pursue, but on your word I will renounce the same to 
seek success in other than religious fields. If you refuse 
my poor oblation: return to me this writing on which 
you have indorsed the figure of the cross — if you accept, 
then write thereon your blessed name; so sacred to the 
Church, so hallowed in my heart. Dolores, decide 
the fate of Eduardo Ortega." 
Always attended. 

Enter Donas Eulalia, Dolores and Barbara. 

Dolores. His Reverence is often met at prayer 
Beneath those gnarled, grotesque and ghostly limbs. 

Dona Eulalia. At night, Dolores? 

Dolores. Yes. 

Dona Eulalia. 0,holy man. 

I sometimes marvel at his great success 
In the conversion of the Indians: 
I need not though with such devotion shown. 

Dona Barbara. To fail would be the marvel of his life. 



ACT II SCENE I 



59 



Eduardo. To pass him in his loftiness of thought, 
Excel him in the greatness of his works, 
Exceed him in his pious kindliness, 
Transcend his deep devotion to our God, 
Or still display more energy than he; 
One could not do. 

Dolores. You picture him in that. 

Dona Eulaiia. You came along the coast? 

Eduardo. Yes, not around 

Point Pinos, for that is too long a road. 
The Father wished to gaze upon the sea 
For southern sails, bound northward with supplies; 







60 FATHER JUNIPERO SERRA. 

Although his watchfulness brought no reward. 

Dolores. But then the way — what an unrivalled way. 
Eduardo. Ah, yes, indeed it is. This afternoon 

The sun while sinking in the distant west, 
Was by the cumulus and stratus veiled; 
And in those vapor barriers prevailed 

The wondrous tints, eve's hour makes manifest. 

Outspreading like gigantic airy fans, 

The streaming rays through fleecy rifts to me 
Appeared, above the still Pacific sea; 

Reflecting golden shadows on the sands. 

The scene, my mind so gently did enchain, 

That I sang out our Padre's evening psalm; 

The Father joined me in the sweet refrain, 

And o'er my soul there came a rest so calm; 

For in that song my feelings found release, 

And life for once seemed one of perfect peace. 

Dona Eulalia. What sweet content one draws from 
Nature's views. 

Dona Barbara. Oft have I noticed such a scene as 
that 
From our retreat. 

Dona Eulalia. Where grow the cypress? 

Dona Barbara. Yes, 

In the fantastic forms; and where the pines, 
Sweet censers of the land, perfume the air, 

Dolores. And to the melody of rustling leaves 
The harp responds. 

Eduardo. Aside. Friend that I know so well. 



ACT II. SCENE I. 61 

Dona Eulalia.. It is the place for poetry and song. 
Dolores. Did you discover any pretty shells? 
Eduardo. O yes, I meant to tell you that I brought 
For your collection some rare specimens. 
Dolores. Thank you, Eduardo. 

Dona Eulalia. Let us see the shells. 

Eduardo. They 're beautiful. I left them near the 

oak. 
Dona Barbara. We '11 have Mateo polish them to- 
night. Exeunt. 

Enter Father Serra, Gov. Fages and Don Pablo. 

Gov. Fages. I thought, Senor, you would agree with 

me. 
Father Serra. And now you see that I was in the 
right: 
I hope this judgment will have weight with you. 

Gov. Fages. I really wished it could, your Reverence, 
But what the viceroy says must be enforced: 
Though I confess Don Pablo changed my views. 

Father Serra. I 'm glad to hear you say that, Gov- 
ernor. 
Gov. Fages. Aside. About his willingness to take a 

bribe. 
Father Serra. Don Pablo, you exhibited those traits 
That judges seem so seldom to possess. 

Gov. Fages. Yes, your remarks were wise and per- 
tinent, 
And your decision an impartial one. 

Father Serra. I wish that you could be alcalde here. 
Don Pedro, could you not create the post? 



62 FATHER JUNIPERO SERRA. 

Gov. Fages. Why, certainly, but would Senor accept? 

Father Serra. Although the office is beneath your 
rank, 
And nominating you I surely owe 
A deep apology; yet I would not 
Have mentioned it, had I not heard you say, 
You thought the office honored any man, 
Especially in countries new as this. 

Don Pablo. You owe me, Father, no apology. 
You have suggested and have tendered, friends, 
An honor due to merits hardly mine. 
I 've always shunned the law as I have shunned 
The restless city world. My happiness, 
And that I would consult, lies mid the scenes 
Of sea and pastoral sublimity; 
My herds have been increasing rapidly, 
And now that I shall soon receive the — 

Gov. Fages. Hush! 

Picks up stone and throws off. Exits and re-enters with a 
wounded bird. 

I rarely miss my aim ! 

Father Serra. Taking bird. A cruel act. 

Gov. Fages. That opportunity I could not lose, 
For I was always good at throwing stones. 
Aside. He noted not the incivility. 
To Don Pablo. What is the bird? 

Don Pablo. A wood thrush, I believe. 

Father Serra. Must these sweet singers be the prey 
of men? 
Has our executive no better sport 



ACT II SCENE L 63 

Then to rehearse the wantonness of youth? 
A broken wing. Be quiet, wounded friend, 
I '11 help you — there is Dona Barbara. 
I 've seen her save these injured birds before. 

Exeunt Father Serra and Don Pablo. 

Gov. Fages. Another word and Serra w r ould have 
known 
About that grant of land. I better warn — 
No, he would be suspicious if I did: 
For nearly three months it has been a risk, 
It can continue so a month or more. Exit. 

Enter Dolores arid Eduardo. 

Eduardo. Holding a rosary in his ha?id. Why, Dolores, 
I am not worthy of this sacred gift. 

Dolores. I think you are. I knew you would be pleased 
if I made a rosary for you. 

Eduardo. I am, and I thank you, I thank you with 
all my heart. It shall always be with me, and when I 
count these hallowed and iridescent beads, your name 
will ever be remembered in the prayers. 

Dolores. Thank you, Eduardo. 

Eduardo. Tell me the history of this lovely emblem 
of the mysteries. 

Dolores. The chain, a silver one, has been an heir- 
loom in our family almost three hundred years, — 

Eduardo. Wrought in the misty decades of the past. 

Dolores. Its story is authentic. It held captive a 
large and brilliant toucan, that Christopher Columbus 
brought to court on his first return. 



64 FATHER JUNIPERO SERRA. 

Eduardo. O, valued relic of the great discovery. 

Dolores. The beads are from the abalone shells I 
found upon the beach. 

Eduardo. Touched by a sea Columbus never saw. 

Dolores. The cross — 

Eduardo. The sacred symbol of the Christian Faith. 

Dolores. Is from a piece of yellow sandal-wood 
brought from the Philippines. 

Eduardo. The navigator's dream. You carved the 
cross and beads, Dolores? 

Dolores. Yes, Eduardo. 

Eduardo. Aside. The rosary is blest. 

Dolores. Do you know, Eduardo, you seem worried 
of late. 

Eduardo. I am. 

Dolores. It is nothing serious, I hope? 

Eduardo. It seems so, but may not be. Aside. The 
letter is best — no — yes — 

Dolores. One of those conditions of the mind where 
confusion and indecision rule? 

Eduardo. Yes, yes, that is it. 

Dolores. Perhaps I can comfort you; let me act your 
confidant. 

Eduardo. Yes, I will confide — you will hear me — you 
will decide — and when you have heard what I have to 
say — judge me not harshly. 

Dolores. I could never do that; I know too well the 
mission of sympathy. What is the trouble? 

Eduardo. It is — I — the Church must lose — I cannot 
speak — here — let my messenger speak for me. Starts 
to give letter to Dolores. Suddenly notices the rosary in his 



ACT II. SCENE II. 



65 



left hand, which he gazes at, and then at the letter. No, 
no, Dolores, I cannot tell you now! Wait, wait — yes, 
wait — forgive me for refusing to confide. Starts to exit, 
I am not ready, for I do not know my way. Exit. 




SCENE II. Another Part of the Rancho Over- 
looking Carmelo Bay. Moonlight. June 3, 1784. 

Enter Donas Dolores and Barbara. 

Dolores. How marked the moonlight shadows seem 
to-night; 
The cypress have their outlined well defined. 
O, look upon the sea! 

Dona Barbara. The scene is grand. 

How far the great Pacific is illumed. 

Dolores. It is a stoup where beams may blessings 
take 



66 FATHER JUNIPERO SERRA. 

For those in far ethereal abodes. 

Enter Father Serra, unseen by stage- 

Dona Barbara. Where hang the pendants of a holy 
throne. 

Father Serra. That light the upward way of saintly 
souls 
To immortality. Well, children, what 
Has brought you here? 

Dona Barbara. The view, your Reverence. 

Dolores. For this is our retreat where after prayers 
We often spend a quiet leisure hour. 

Father Serra. No one could wish a better place to 
rest. 
How small are we in this stupendous space. 
O, marvelous the works of God: For us, 
He has ordained one scene of beauty shall 
Tread close upon some vanishing display; 
So fades the sun in sunset glorious, 
And from the dusk that masks the coming change 
There is evolved a great mosaic dome, 
Whose golden settings aid the silver moon 
In lending to the earth a borrowed light. 
Let infidels behold and then explain 
How came the system so appropriate 
To wants of man. O origin divine. 
My children, let my blessings be with you. Exit 

Dona Barba?-a. How deep, how reaching his philoso- 
phy. 

Dolores. It is indeed. 

Dona Barbara. Tell me, Dolores, dear, 



ACT II SCENE II. 67 

What do you think of Captain Alvarez? 

Dolores. Now, Barbara, why do you ask? 

Doha Barbara. Because — 

Because — just this; when he is not with you 
Or Governor Fages, he is with me — 

Dolores. Has he — 

Doha Barbara. No, not in love with me but then 

I think he is in love with you. 

Dolores. I knew 

That long ago. 

Doha Barbara. You did! 

Dolores. Why, certainly. 

Doha Barbara. Then he has told you so? 

Dolores. He might as well. 

Doha Barbara. Now this is news to me; and that is 
why 
He often comes appearing so in doubt 
About what you must think of him. I thought 
That probably he had offended you. 

Dolores. He talks to you of me? 

Doha Barba7'a. Of nothing else. 

Your joys and sorrows, hopes and fears, are all 
Upon the list of questions he has asked: 
He takes an interest in all you do; 
The story of your life I 've told him twice. 

Dolores. How very tired you must become of him. 

Doha Barbara. No, for I am amused, so artless does 
He try to make the questions seem to me. 
We must return; we '11 talk of this again. 

Dolores. Go slowly in advance, and I will come 
Directly after, now I want to think 



68 FATHER JUNIPERO SERRA. 

A little while alone. 

Dona Barbara. As you desire. EjiiJ. 

Do/ores. Eduardo seems so worried, but no doubt 
He wished to tell of struggles for their rights. 
He is so earnest when he speaks, and then 
He takes the friars' troubles so to heart. 
To love I 'm sure he never gave a thought; — 
How often in the past I 've wished he would. 
It could not be — no, it was of the Church. 

Manuel. Without. Whoa, Concha. 

Dolores. It 's Don Manuel, returned. 

Manuel. Without. Stay here until I find that narrow 
trail. 

Enter Manuel. 

What, Senorita, is it you I see, 

So far from home at night and here alone? 

Dolores. It is not far away, Don Manuel. 
We just came out, that 's Barbara and I, 
To have a pleasant walk. How came you here? 

Manuel. I left my escort a full league behind, 
And started out to find the way alone; 
I lost the trail, it was a lucky loss. 
Is Dona Barbara with you? 

Dolores. Not now, 

We were just going home, she is ahead. 

Manuel. Delay your going for a while. 
I thought of you when on my homeward way. 

Dolores. In consequence I made you lose your way. 

Manuel. To end as this I would be lost again. 
The subject was a most absorbing one, 



ACT II SCENE II. 

And as I rode along I gave my thoughts 
To dreamy reveries, and Vespers chimed 
From sweet San Carlos bells as shadows fell 
And night stood commandant to fleeting hours. 

When deeper shadows of the night o'ertake 
In silent way the early evening hour, 
Then soft and low the silver bells forsake 
Their quiet vigil in the mission tower: 
In rhythmic measure sound the silvery notes 
As o'er the peaceful valley they vibrate; — 
How tuneful sweet the holy music floats, — 
While drowsy doves in sudden flight gyrate. 
So in such twilights oft I take my way, 
To pray at Vespers in the place where dwells 
An absolution for our sins of day; 
What consolation 'neath those saintly bells; 
And at my death I ask no greater boon, 
Than pass away as floats their sacred tune. 

Dolores. May you receive the blessing that you ask. 
Manuel. Yours is indeed a kindly wish for me. 

I 've ever found you good as beautiful. 
Dolores. Sefior, you really favor me beyond — 
Ma?iuel. That is a pleasure, I could think of you 

Forever. Yes — I have to think of you; 

I cannot nor I would not cast aside 

Such pleasant thoughts, of such a pleasant theme. 
Dolores. Now do not worship me — 
Manuel. I do, I do! 

Your graces ask a man's idolatry, 



FATHER JUNIPERO SERRA. 







For admiration is too poor a word. 

Do/ores. Do you forget the other ladies here? 
What of Carlota or Engracia? 
Are Seiioritas Isabel, Ines, 
Or Rosa Davila by you forgot? 

Manuel. I have no thought of others that are here. 

Dolores. You are in love — so blind to grievous faults. 

Manuel. The object of my love, I took the care 
To find devoid of trying faults, before 
I would allow myself to be enslaved. 

Dolores. Ah! so you studied up advantages 



ACT II. SCENE II 71 

With cold and business-like alacrity, 
And then — you fell in love. 

Manuel No, no! I — I — 

Dolores, Yes, yes, you have acknowledged that was it. 

Manuel I did not need to study what appears 
So broadly plain to every passer-by. 
Aside. It seems the more I say the worse I plead. 

Dolores. But do you ever stop to think that I 
May love you not? 

Manuel I think it all the time. 

Ah, you will never know how I have loved! 

Dolores. I know you have, you need not tell me that. 
So deep are your affections then for me? 

Manuel Strong as the strength of tidal waves, and 
deep 
As the unfathomed sea from which they rise. 

Dolores. Were I a man, no woman would lay claim 
To my affections so. 

Manuel Not being one, 

You cannot measure then, the attribute. 

Dolores. Of man's affections, oft I 've heard it said, 
They 're not renowned for their fidelity; — 
So long as woman will be beautiful, 
So long will live and love inconstant man. 

Manuel But, Sefiorita, I 'm not such a man. 

Dolores. Perhaps you 're not the only gentleman 
That thinks of me. 

Manuel. I thought that I was right! 

Where is my rival then, that I may make 
With him a fighting opportunity? 
I 'd leave him vanquished on contention's field. 



72 FATHER JUNIPERO SERRA. 

Dolores. Provided you are the superior. 

Manuel. I 'd give a thousand pesos for the chance 
To see with him who 's better in a quarrel! 
Who is the man, and where does he reside? 

Dolores. I 'm not aware that there is one — 

Manuel O then 

My way is clear? 

Dolores. There may be two or three. 

Manuel. Once more do you destroy my fondest 
hopes. 
Yet why should I withdraw for others here? 
What is my life that I should try to save 
It for the good of a corrupted state 
To trade away in service of defense, 
So some ranchero man could say to me 
"The sefiorita is to be my bride, 
I 'm sure you'll join in our festivities." 
No, no! if I 'm to have my rivals then; — 
Why tell them they must fight! 

Dolores. That must not be. 

I would not have you go to such extremes, 
Nor would' I love the victor of a fight. 

Manuel. I did not think, a woman seldom does. 
Then I will be the worst whipped of the two! 
So say the word and I will not defend 
My person or my honor in the least, 
But meekly stand and let the biggest coward 
Or braggart of the town, they 're both the same, 
Exult in his imagined victory. 

Dolores. I do not have among my friends the kind 
That you describe. 



ACT II. SCENE 21. 73 

Manuel O, pardon me again! 

I really did not mean it in that light. 
Forgive me for the errors that I make. 

Dolores. They do increase at most alarming rate. 
Senor, I must return, I will be missed, 

Manuel. Permit me to escort you home? 

Dolores. No, thanks, 

For it is best I go alone. Good night. 

Manuel Show me the road or I will lose the way. 

Dolores. Here, this one to the right, I '11 take the left. 

Manuel. Eduardo 's here! 

Dolores. What shall we do? 

speak? 

Manuel. No. 

I would not have him learn that we 're so near. 

Enter Edua?'do. 

Eduardo. Aside. How like a vision did the rosary 
Recall to mind the cloistered walk of life. 

Manuel. I 'm fearful that my horse will whinney 
now. 
Step carefully. Is this the path? 

Dolores. Yes, there; 

The house is east of us a little way. 

Eduardo. Aside. How many things I seem to miss 
in life. 

Dolores. I '11 go the other path. There 's Barbara! 
I have not followed her — she 's coming back — 
The chaparrel is thick — we '11 have to stay 
Until she finds I am no longer here. 
My path is to the left, too far away 



74 FATHER JUNIPERO SERRA. 

To reach without discovery. Be still. 

Eduardo. Aside. It ever is the actor not the line. 
He who creates, commands approval most. 

Manuel. I hope that she will not discover us. 

Eduardo. Aside. O, how romantic love must be to 
some. 

Dolores. I was most indiscreet to stop to talk. 
I wish I had not stayed. 

Manuel. I 'm glad you did. 

By being indiscreet I stole a joy: 
Yet when invested with so many charms, — 
A moonlit sea, a surf, and forest grand; 
An air as balmy as the tropic night; 
And then with one whom Nature made so fair 
That when compared with her the scene is poor; 
An opportunity as indiscreet 
I can but hope will come quite soon again. 
I '11 shield you from all harm, so trust in me. 

Enter Dona Barbara. 

Eduardo. Aside. Are all men's lives so bordered by 

a love? 
Dona Barbara. Dolores! O, Dolores! 
Eduardo. Who is that? 

Dona Barbara. Why, who are you? 
Eduardo. My name 's 

Ortega, who — 
Dona Barbara. Eduardo? 

Eduardo. Yes — O, Dona Barbara? 

Dona Barbara. Yes, have you seen Dolores? She 

was here. 



ACT II SCENE II. 75 

We were out walking and she strayed behind. 

Eduardo. I have not seen her since devotion hour. 
I came out for a walk and just arrived. 

Dona Barbara. Well, we were here a little while ago. 
No doubt she took the shorter way for home. 

Eduardo. Quite possible. Aside- A path I never 
take. 

Dona Barbara. She must be home by now. 

Dolores. Aside to Manuel. I wish I were. 

I shall tell Barbara of this. 

Manuel. Do not, 

I beg of you, I 'm sure she ? d take offence. 

Dolores. Here is an opening, I '11 run ahead. Exit 

Eduardo. Perhaps she walked along the beach. 

Dona Barbara. No doubt. 

Well, I will hurry back. Good night. 

Eduardo. Good night. 

Exit Dona Barbara. 

Manuel. Aside. Here is my time to vanish in the 
woods. Exit 

Eduardo. Ah, to destroy the letter as I did 
On afterthought, was wisdom well employed! 
No, I must be the man and to her face 
Speak of my lovre, and not with craven pen 
Disclose the story lips alone should tell: 
He who 's afraid to brave his lady fair 
With such a tale, is shadow to a man; 
Unable to in danger great, defend 
The woman he professes to adore. 
No more of that! I '11 now declare to her 



76 FA THER JUNIPERO SERRA. 

With all the polish of a cavalier, 

That I, one of the great Ortega house 

Of noble Spain, intended for the Church; 

Will on acceptance of his heart and hand, 

Renounce ambitions in that line of work, 

And lay at his Dolores' feet, the wealth, 

The strength of an undying love. What 's that! 

Who 's next to make a visitation here? 

Manuel Without. Whoa, Concha. I must know 
more of the roads. 

Enter Manuel, 

I wonder if he 's here? 

Eduardo. Well, Manuel! 

So you have just returned? 

Manuel. And lost the trail. 

I gave my horse the rein and found myself 
Up by an old corral, where he was kept 
Before I bought him of the don. But you, 
Once more out walking and absorbed in thought? 

Eduardo- O, yes, it has become a fault with me. 

Manuel. A pleasant habit rather than a fault. 

Eduardo. Yes, 't is agreeable. No incident 
I hope arose to mar your ride? 

Manuel Except 

That I was lost, each league had its delights, — 
In fact, through those delights I lost my way. 

Eduardo. I '11 set you right. 

Manuel. Aside. I only wish he could. 

I wonder if she 's angry with me for — 

Eduardo- What 's this, a handkerchief? Dolores — 



ACT II. SCENE II. 77 

Manuel. Yes. 

Eduardo. How do you know? 

Manuel I only guessed at it. 

Is not this place her favorite retreat? 

Eduardo. It is. You came with her some time per- 
haps? 

Ma?iuel. No, no, but I have heard her say it was. 
Shall I return the handkerchief? 

Eduardo. I will. 

O, how about that franking privilege? 
What does the governor expect to do? 

Manuel. I really cannot say. I spoke of it, 
On which he smiled and would have answered me, 
But then an orderly called him aside 
And I forgot to mention it again. 

Eduardo. There is a tale behind that cynic's smile. 

Manuel You are not just, the governor means well. 

Eduardo. He is not just to us. 

Manuel He tries to be. 

Eduardo. Please do not say a thing like that, old 
friend. 

Ma?iuel These troubles we should never talk about. 

Eduardo. Yes, argument is sure to break the peace: 
In wordy wars agreement seldom comes; 
The ends oft fail to profit either side, 
And only serve to rupture friendship's bonds 
Or sunder ties which better close remain. 
No doubt you will attend Don Pedro's fete? 

Manuel Indeed, I shall. 

Eduardo. Dolores will be there? 

Manuel Yes, why? 



78 FATHER JUNIPERO SERRA. 

Eduardo. O, I was only wondering. 

Manuel. Aside. Fages was right. To Eduardo. 
I must return, it 's late; 
The governor is awaiting my report. 
I wish you 'd show the way, Eduardo. 

Eduardo. There, 

Ride o'er the knoll and then turn to the left, 
From past the blasted pine the road is straight; 
The lights will be your guide. I follow soon. 

Manuel. All right, I '11 find the way. Good night. Exit. 

Eduardo. Good night. 

My thoughts can need no goad to wander there 
Within adobe walls, where glimmer lights 
That throw a radiance around her form — 

An cEolian harp sounds. 

The weird seolian! the wind is up; 
I hear you, Harp, O, softly sound again! 
Ah, music kindred of devoted love, 
Speak unto those sweet sentiments that in 
My ardent soul so struggle for response. 
I know all nature does not sleep at night 
For there are some who seek repose in day 
That nightly watches keep; so I will watch, 
And meditate, and dream and theorize, 
While you, O Harp, companion, sing to me. 
There, give to me the turbulent caprice, 
The phantom that a violinist dreams: 
Was ever music played and mastered so; 
Your themes depict your versatility. 
If she were only here so I could speak, 



ACT II. SCENE II. 79 

The beauties of the place would win my cause- 
How happy I will be when hearing < Yes/ — 
And yet she knows it not. What now appears? 

Enter Father Serra, scourging himself. 

Father Serra. Aside. Sink in this sinful frame, re- 
proving scourge! 
Destroy the evil there; make me more fair 
In features of the soul so pure, so rare; 
That God may look on me and turn away 
With unoffended eyes. 

Eduardo. Aside. His Reverence! 

Look on your mentor and his saintliness: 
The contrast comes again, — it 's ever near. 

Father Serra. Whom do I see, my sight is somewhat 
dim? 

Eduardo. Your Reverence, it is Eduardo here. 

Father Serra. What can Eduardo want so late at 
night? 

Eduardo. I stole away to meditate. 

Father Serra. It 's well; 

A thoughtful mind alone would do as that. 
To mend the future is to note the past, 
For we can always find our errors there. 
You came to me two years ago to-day? 

Eduardo. Why so it is, your Reverence, to-day. 
San Carlos' fourteenth anniversary. 

Father Serra. Two things we should be very thankful 
for. 
Be faithful to your Church and to your friends, 
Work for humanity; and you '11 be blest. 



80 FATHER JUNIPERO SERRA. 

Eduardo. O, that, my Father, I shall never be: 
I am too sinful, humble and unknown. 

Father Serra. Aside. So humble now; marked is the 
saintly trait. 

Eduardo. My future 's dark, my penetration 's poor. 

Father Serra, Let not that be your grim discourager, 
For penetration comes to those who seek. 
My son, heed what advice the Father gives. 

Eduardo. You speak to one unworthy of advice. 

Father Serra. We 're all unworthy, son, and unto 
you 
One most unworthy speaks; bear that in mind. 
You '11 have dark ages in your youthful years; 
I oft experienced that dismal state, — 
Those rayless and depressing periods, — 
Days when you '11 see no light but what reflects 
From your distorted views: but struggle on 
And never note the profit to yourself; 
Our triumphs are not those that w T in applause, 
So then expect it not, and ask it not, — 
When you are dead if you deserved a thought 
The world accords you praise; and that is right; 
But recognition by your God exceeds 
By far the honors gained from fellow-man; " 
We find in that the true divinity : 
That was Saint Francis' rule, we '11 follow him. 

Eduardo. Ah, Father, what a comfort are your words! 
Now do I see my future in the light 
Of understanding and of truth. Aside, Pass on! 
You agonizing questions of the hour; 
Away, Love, with your trivialities! 



ACT II. SCENE II 



81 



I want no more of you! Pass on, pass on! 

Father Serra. Yea, in your darkest moments let His 
works 
That stand so visible, stand there to lead: 
When you behold the high Sierra peaks 
Remember, as you gaze, they ever point 
To the abode of everlasting life! 
Grace from the Hand above, to light the way; 
Should be your prayer from this eventful day. 




ACT III. 

Exterior View of San Carlos Mission, the Church 
in the Background. Forenoon, June 24, 1784. 

Curtain up on Father Serra and a neophyte choir. 

Father Serra. My sons, now sing once more Saint 
Joseph's hymn. 
Ignacio, lead off; sing slower though. 
Fernando, let your bass be heard. Commence. 
Choir sing. 

O let the world in duty bow, 

This is Saint Joseph' s day; 
To him your humble prayers avow, 

Afflictions he will stay; 
A sacred soul we kneel to now, 
As Mass our Fathers say. 

Father Serra. I see you have improved in singing this. 
Jacinto and Ramon, the tenor 's good. 
Now for the second verse, Ignacio. 

Choir sing. 

For with Saint Joseph as a guide, 

From sin we shall bejree; 
In him assistance does abide, 

Our errors he can see; 
O, Fathers, help us to his side, 

Con/ess we should to thee. 



ACT III. 83 

Enter Father Noriega. 

Father Noriega. Praise be to God. 

Father Serra. Amen. 

Father Noriega. How 

well they sing. 
Father Serra. They do, indeed. My children, you 're 

dismissed. 

Exit Choir. 

I 'm anxious that the choir shall know the hymn 
By nineteenth of July, when monthly Mass 
In honor of Saint Joseph shall be said. 

Father Noriega. You '11 not be disappointed in your 
hopes. 

Father Serra. If disappointment went no farther than 
The learning of a hymn I would be glad. — 
Our California I fear will not 
Be fully under missionary rule. 

Father Noriega. That end no doubt will be attained. 

Father Serra. It may, 

Still states against the Church are obstinate; 
They take advantage of our principles. 

Father Noriega. They know the priestly craft would 
not descend 
To the low means its enemies employ. 

Father Serra. This month my license to confirm ex- 
pires. 
And I no longer can administer 
The Holy Sacrament to these poor souls. 

Father Noriega. I 'm sure that a renewal will arrive. 

Father Serra. I fear 't will not. The propect 's also poor 



84 FA THER JUNIPERO SERRA. 

For friars and we are so short of help; 
And then this domineering of a man 
Whose exit from the ranks was a mistake, 
Is suffering indeed — but we must bear. 
Old and infirm, my work is nearly done, 
The evening of life brings me despair. 

Father Noriega. This year has been a most unhappy 
one. 

Father Serra. Alas, my friend, what have I now tc 
show 
For all my work? Where is the legacy? 

Last night I found upon the sandy beach 

An abalone shell, the sea had thrown 

From off the rocks, the place where it had grown. 
That lustrous nacre as it lay to bleach, 
Gave me a theme that I to all could preach; 

It was, ' How little are God's wonders known/ 

On every side so lavish has He sown, 
Yet on we pass quite heedless what 's in reach. 
Then sad became my thoughts there on the sand, 

While restless waves their nocturnes moaned to me: 
For that bright pearl made by our Father's hand, 

Disclosed that I, of intellect so free, 
Could at my death leave not one work so grand, 

As was that shell left stranded by the sea. 

Father Noriega. It is our lot to be content and work, 
And in our aging years with sorrow look 
Upon a life in futile efforts spent. 
Here is Don Manuel. 



ACT III. 8 5 

Enter Manuel. 

Good morning, Fathers. 



Manuel 

Father Serra. I *m glad to see you, son 




Father Noriega. Good day, Sefior. 

Manuel I 've brought a message to your Reverence. 
Father Serra. What says the governor, not, 'No,' I 

hope? 
Manuel. It 's with regret I say he has declined. 
Father Noriega. Again, yes, once again! we might 

have known. 



86 FA THER JUNIPERO SERRA. 

Father Serra. I've been expecting that; but step 
within 
And tell me what he said. I '11 answer him. Exeunt. 

Enter Eduardo. 

Eduardo. O, how unbearable is argument 
When your opponent is your wretched self. 
I thought within the forest by the sea 
That well-remembered moonlit evening, 
That henceforth I would labor for the cross; 
In that determination feelings ruled. 
Shall I abjure intent of holy life? — 
The chance I lose in youth I '11 not regain 
To be ordained a Father of the Church; 
For when our youth is past, we lose those years 
So precious for the basis of great works, — 
Then, to begin upon the rudiments 
In middle life, is difficult to do, — 
Still, still, with her I would not wish a change. 

Enter Father Noriega. 

Father Noriega. My son, the governor received the 

note? " 
Eduardo. Yes, Father, I delivered it to Juan, 
Who later on reported it received. 

Father Noriega. He had it then before the captain 
came, — 
Insulting us by disregarding it. Exit. 

Eduardo. The Fathers have their trials as well as I. 
O may I judge with those far-reaching views 



ACT III 87 

And wisdom that is bought in man's estate! 
What, here to-day? I 'd rather be alone. 

Enter Manuel 

Eduardo. How are you, Manuel? 

Manuel. I 'm very well. 

I hope you are the same? 

Eduardo. I am quite well. 

Manuel. Your looks do not confirm the statement 
though. 

Eduardo. In health I am the same. 

Manuel. But not in mind. 

In you I 've read a strange perplexity. 

Eduardo. Well, yes, I have been worried some of 
late. 

Manuel. Forget, the winter not, though summer 's 
here. 

Eduardo. What may you mean by that, dear Manuel? 

Manuel. From what I 've seen I think you are in 
love. 

Eduardo. In love! 

Manuel. Exactly so, but it 's not strange — 

Eduardo. I do not know about that now, it is: 
You never dreamed I 'd give the passion thought? 

Manuel. I 've had suspicions of the fact, — it 's sad. 

Eduardo. What, ah yes, so it is. Is all love sad? 
Come, tell me what you think about my case: 
Is all love fraught with thought and argument? 
You 've seen more of society than I, 
And so must have some knowledge of its charm. 



88 FATHER JUNIPERO SERRA. 

Give me advice and sympathy, — I need 
The latter most. 

Manuel. And so you love her then. 

Eduardo. She 's now the inspiration of my life; 
Why, Manuel, you do not know my love. 

Manuel Do you forget the Church has been your 

aim? 
Eduardo. There, that has been my trial these many 
months; 
I dread to leave the Fathers and the work, 
And hazard fortune in a foreign craft. 
In fact, I have not told his Reverence, 
I was afraid that it would break his heart. 
I am in doubt. 

Manuel. It 's well you are in doubt. 

Eduardo, I have been your life-long friend, 
And therefore am commissioned by that right 
To show Eduardo's follies to himself. 
All youth must feel the sovereign power of love, 
For it 's a trait that will assertion make, 
But heed it not and it will die away, 
A thing forgotten, just an episode, 
Deserving not a memory or thought. 

Eduardo. Forget — forget— and wounded as I 've 
been? 
I will forget when memory is dead. 

Manuel Bow not in such humility to it; 
It is a fault to let a passion rule: 
Beware or it will master you. 

Eduardo. It has. 

Manuel And lead you stealthily to married state, 



ACT III. 89 

An outcome you forever will regret. 

Eduardo. With her? that cannot be. 

Manuel. O, but it will. 

This love of yours seems strong, it is not so. 
It 's but a ripple on a surface calm. 

Eduardo. The ripple is an overwhelming flood. 

Manuel. Besides she would not make for you — 

Eduardo. Stop there. 

For, Manuel, she lacks deficiencies. 

Manuel. Well, that may be, but you are very wrong; 
For Nature has selected some of us 
To serve the Holy Apostolic Church, 
And of that favored number you are one. 

Eduardo- I thought so once. 

Manuel And you should think so now. 

Your early plans and thoughts kept company 
With all that 's grand and solemn in this life: 
How often have you spoken of the time 
When through the vaulted nave with aspergill, 
You 'd walk to bless the congregation there: 
Or in the many altar rites your hand 
Would draw from the ampulla's sacred store 
The unction of a soul. How often have 
You hoped to rear in still more distant wilds, 
Such sanctuaries as were builded here: 
And yet these and the thousand other ways 
In which a priest can be of lasting good; — 
You 'd disregard for frail affection's tie. 

Eduardo. Perhaps I have been wrong, — perhaps I 

have. 
Manuel Why think of it, Eduardo, think of it. 



90 FATHER JUNIPERO SERRA. 

Had you not better be a saintly priest 

And walk a road of thorns in sanctity, 

Than live the rich ranchero's life of ease? 

I judge that 's the employment you would choose; 

And when that life nears end you '11 have to say, 

"I 've saved no souls, I 've not advanced the Church, 

I have not preached the way my kind should die, 

No, but I have accumulated wealth, 

And on that profit rests a wasted life." 

Ah, Miserere then will be your psalm! 

Te Deum to your life you cannot sing. 

Eduardo. You 're right, you 're right, you 're right. 

Manuel. Let me recall 

A former pictured future to your mind. 

Eduardo. No, it is needless, for I see it now. 

Manuel. Then you are growing wise. Beware the 
bond, 
Or life will be to you a field of tares. 
Besides the greatest folly of it all 
To try and win an unresponsive love. 

Eduardo. "An unresponsive love!" why call it that? 

Manuel. Because another has her heart. 

Eduardo. What 's that! 

You mean to say she loves another man? 

Manuel You speak as though you had no argument; 
My good advice is thrown away. 

Eduardo. O no, 

I do appreciate what you advise; 
But as I said, you do not know my love; — 
It 's no mirage to fade when questioned close 
But I would like to know who is the man. 



ACT III. 91 

Manuel. You did not talk like this when I returned. 

Eduardo. I 've learned since then. 

Manuel. And you have yet to learn 

You since learned little. 

Eduardo. Who's the man she loves? 

ManueL I do not like to tell you that. 

Eduardo. Come, come! 

I will not have a rival in the town! 
I shall engage myself this very eve. 

Manuel. Aside. I went too far. Now for the trag- 
edy. 

Eduardo. Why do you hesitate? Speak out! Speak 
out! 

ManueL I 'm the one. 

Eduardo. Manuel. It 's you she loves? 

This is too much! this is too much to bear! 
Some other one, and I 'd have fought for her; 
But you, against you I shall not rebel; — 
You 've been to me too honestly a friend. 
But are you sure she is in love with you? 

Manuel. It 's very plain. 

Eduardo. Where is the evidence, 

Dear Manuel? I must be very blind; 
I really have not seen or heard a thing: 
She 's sure to tell me anything like that. 
It could not be that you are wrong in this? 

Manuel. Quite unabashed you seem to doubt my 
word : 
I told you that she loved me, that 's enough. 

Eduardo. It should have been, that was unkind 
of me; — 



92 FATHER JUNIPERO SERRA. 

I did not doubt you, though. I 'm sick at heart 
But I 'm surprised she did not tell me this: 
I '11 ask her why. 

Manuel Do nothing of the kind! 

So take my word and let the matter drop. 

Eduardo. Why, Manuel! why do you talk like tint? 

Manuel. Because I do not care to have it known. 

Eduardo. Must then Don Pablo or his family 
Know nothing of this love? That is not right; 
You 've given me advice, let me advise; — 
Inform her father of your happiness, 
It looks suspicious keeping such a fact. 

Manuel. Suspicious! how? It 's nothing of the kind! 

Eduardo. Aside. It does not seem that she has 
gone from me. To Manuel. 

But it will soon be known by accident, 
Then what diversion would the gossips have. 

Manuel. I wish you 'd please attend to your affairs, 
And not concern yourself — 

Eduardo. No, I will not! 

If she accepted you, it 's my affair 
To the extent of seeing it disclosed; 
I '11 tell Don Pablo ere the day is o'er, 
And also ask her why she told me not. 
No stain shall ever rest upon her name 
While I 'm her friend! 

Manuel Eduardo, you 're a fool! 

You 've dreamed so long you are not practical. 
Aside. I 've but myself to blame for all of this; 
As yet from her there 's no encouragement. 
To have her know I published such a thing 



act ii l m 

Would on the hearing warrant my disgrace. 
Retreat? — no! Brave it out and see Fages. 

Eduardo. Aside. No evidence — her failure to remark — 
He is impulsive though and may be wrong — 
The worst of all to try and hide the fact — 
Such a solicitude — to speak so sharp — 
No heart for one who suffered such a stroke — 
That spirit 'shorn not of true fellowship. 
To Manuel Aha! I see! The light begins to break! 
I did not think my friend would treat me so: 
Why, what a bare-faced scheme. 

Manuel. You do imply — 

Eduardo. That you have lied to me. 

Manuel What! Draws sword. No. Sheaths sword. 

Eduardo. Strike! strike! 

It will avail, because when I am dead 
You will be free to push your cause along, 
And try to win the love of her who now 
Has not for you the shadow of regard! 
Forget the winter! no, indeed, I '11 not! 
You are the bitter winter of my love, 
The frost that comes to blight my fondest hopes, 
The warming rays of sympathy you 've not: 
Go on your way, ally, you brought regrets. 
As I said once to Love, away, away! 
I say to you, begone, you treacherous 
Deceiving prop of State's iniquity! 
I want no interference from you here! 
And mark you this, you '11 go! — though love did not. 

Manuel Stop this tirade, sir, stop! 

Eduardo. Why should I cease? 



94 FATHER JUNIPERO SERRA. 

O, Friendship, what a champion you have 
In Captain Alvarez, a servant high , 
In the opinion of the governor, 
The friars' friend in California. 

Enter Father Serra. 

Oppose me! Yes, I am just the one to let 
You do a thing like that! I '11 end you now! 

Rushes at him. 

Father Serra. My son, my son ! What means this 
sinful act? 
Do you forget the sacred lessons taught? 
Are they in merit quite so poor as this? 
I knew you both to be the closest friends, 
I do not wish to see you enemies. 

Manuel. But I 'm afraid, no longer friend of mine — 
I wrong him though, he 's not himself to-day. 
If you have written, Father, I '11 return; 
Don Pedro ordered me to hasten back. 

Father Serra. Go, hoping that these troubles will 
amend. 
Here is my answer to. the governor. Hands him a letter. 

Exit Manuel. 

Eduardo. An enemy, a man of artifice. 

Father Serra. I 'm pained to hear that, son; what did 

he do? 
Eduardo. He interfered with things he should not 
know, 
And then to crown it all he lied to me; 
It angered me to think that he, my friend, 



ACT III. 95 

Should act the part of a conspirator, 
And in the transports of a sudden rage 
I almost felt his life belonged to me. 

Father Serra. O God, forgive your sinful soul. Go on. 

Edtiardo. O Father, note the errors that I 've 
made, 
I can no longer stand uncertainty — 
I cannot serve my God — I am too weak — 
Absolve me, Father, from the hopes you 've held, 
For I have dared or rather had to love. 

Father Serra. Then you serve God, my child. Come, 
tell to me 
The story of this new awakening, 
That has occasioned you such loss of peace. 
Remember, that confession comfort brings, 
There is no rest so sweet to troubled minds, 
Than knowing that the Father knows your trials 
And can advise in sympathy with you. 

Ed?ta?'do: Kind sympathy, what strangers we have 
been. Exeunt. 

Enter Father Noriega, Don Pablo, and Dona Babara. 

Father Noriega. His Reverence is feeling better now; 
But then, Sefiora, I am glad you came, 
For he would like to have you make some more 
Of that herb tea, it greatly strengthens him. 

Dona Barbara. I 'm pleased to hear it was a benefit. 

Enter Dona Dolores and Ignacio. 
Father Noriega, Did you enjoy the ride, my child? 



00 FA THER JUNIPERO SERRA 

Dolores. So much, 

My Father, and of late I ride alone. 

Father Noriega. It is good exercise; but do not go 
Too far away from home, the country 's wild. 

Dolores. O no, I 'm very careful in my rides. 

Dona Barbara. I '11 go and make the tea, your Rev- 
erence. 

Dolores. And I will go and help you, Barbara, 

Father Noriega. You better have Ramon get you 
some herbs, 

1 do not think we have enough in store. 

Exeunt Donas Dolores and Barbara. 

Father Noriega. You have a very pleasant home, 

Senor. 
Don Pablo. My daughter is the comfort of my life, 
And in her cousin Barbara she has 
A kind companion in her youthful trials. 

Father Noriega. How sacred is a happy Christian 

home. 
Don Pablo. The Church and home have close re- 
lationship. 
Ignacio brought word the president 
Was anxious to confer with me. 

Father Noriega. He is; 

Inform the Father that Don Pablo 's here. 

Exit Ignacio. 

Don Pablo. Ignacio is quite intelligent. 
Father Noriega. Yes, he has studied now for seven 
years. 






ACT III 97 

My duties call, Seiior, I '11 leave you now; 

His Reverence will be at leisure soon. Exit. 

Enter Dona Barbara. 

Dona Barbara* Ramon had not enough of herbs for 
me; 
He went to gather some. 

Don Pablo, Now, Barbara — 

There 's something that I wish to speak about. 
You know, we '11 not return to Spain and so 
No doubt Dolores will be married here, 
And there 's a point on which I 've been disturbed: 
Who is the man that 's suitable for her? 
Your care has been a watchful one? 

Dona Barbara. It has. 

Don Pablo. Because you know that ardent youth 
forget 
That wisdom should have weight in love affairs; 
From negligence grave indiscretions spring; 
Keep note of those that pay her their respects; 
Her husband must be of a noble line. 

Dona Barbara. I keep informed, and then she tells 
me all. 
Our family so ancient and so fair 
Was ne'er by misalliance marred, and now, 
We '11 not record beginning of the taint 
While I may live to watch affinities. 

Don Pablo. And all formalities must be observed. 

Dona Barbara. I favor no romance when out of form. 

Don Pablo. You 're true I see to Spanish pride of 
birth, 



98 FATHER JUNIPERO SERRA. 

As you are to the ceremonials. 

Reports are good of Captain Alvarez, 

Somewhat ambitious and not rich, but still 

He has the qualities that riches need 

To make them well appear. What other ones? 

Dona Barbara, Besides the captain there 's the brave 
Miguel, 
Who saved his friend Alferez Sal from death; 
An Alvarado, they 're of noble blood. 

Don Pablo. I know of him, he is approved. Who 
else? 

Dona Barbara. Juan Castro 's next, the Mission 
corporal. 
His father 's a grandee of highest rank 
And lives in Salamanca, I believe; 
Juan cast aside his parents' proffered help 
And ventured for his fortune in the west. 

Don Pablo. Accepted. Whom does she admire the 
most? 
Or are there any more? 

Dona Barbara. Of course there are, 

She 's loved by every one in Monterey; 
Her fame for beauty like so many here 
Has traveled down the coast to Mexico, 
And many nobles of the capital 
Have chosen wives in California. 

Don Pablo. Quite right. 

Dona Barbara. But every one must take 

her smiles 
And gracious favors share and share alike ; 
Her distribution 's marked by equity, 






ACT III. 99 

And none can say — " I am the favored one; " 
They strive to gain more ground in her regard, 
Still all are baffled in their best attempts; 
I never saw young men so held aloof; 
She is a master in that modest art. 

Don Pablo. The time will come when she will make a 
choice. Exeunt. 

Enter Father Serra and Eduardo. 

Eduardo. I can partake of the Communion now. 
It does not seem the chalice could contain 
A blessing for my constant sinning soul. 
Ah, Father, how can you forgive my sins? 

Father Serra. He 's yet to unforgive those that have 
erred, 
Who in their hearts are sorry for their faults. 
Eduardo. I know, my Father, it is your great 
wish 
For me to study and become a priest, 
And to that end I have been most inclined — 
Till Love, disturbing element, arose. 

Father Serra. It may be that and nothing more 
than that, 
Again it may point out your course in life, 
To marry and become a settler here. 

Eduardo. You will decide for me, your Reverence? 
Father Serra. Not I, my son, that must remain with 

you. 
Eduardo. It 's reason's will and passion's strength at 
odds, 
They represent a duty and a love: 



100 FA THER JUNIPERO SERRA. 

I 've read the lives of martyrs for the Falth y 
I 'd like to die as died those stainless ones. 

Father Serra. How oft I Ve wished that theirs would 
be my fate; 
They spread the light — they spread the light afar. 

Eduardo. Opponent to this stands the layman's 
life; 
She is my fate, for her I 'd gladly die; 
I see myself a rich and happy don 
And doing good to all within my reach — 
My heart would be as kind as any priest's. 

Father Serra. Your mind is of the analyzing 
kind, 
Not every one can concentrate his thoughts 
As you have done — a splendid faculty; 
Then the enthusiasm you possess 
Will be in churchly work a priceless gift; 
Therefore I counsel you, take time and think; 
You have not told Dolores of your love, 
Do not until you 're sure that course is best; 
When you have settled on a choice, remain. 
Again, as Manuel has said, she may 
Not love you as you seem so sure she does; 
Now if she does and you decide to stay 
One of the laity, I shall assist 
You all I can, and always be your friend; 
I '11 see that you are well supplied with land; 
But if you wish to study for the Church, 
In San Fernando I will have you placed 
The coming year ? if I should live so long, 
If not, the Fathers here will do for you. 



ACT III. 101 

Enter Ignacio. 

Ignacio* Don Pablo has arrived, your Reverence. 
Father Serra. Ah, yes, I would be pleased to see 
him here. Exit Ignacio. 

Eduardo. My Father, I '11 abide by your advice. 
I thank you for your offers and your words. 

Exit Eduardo. 

Father Serra. So youth to manhood takes its stormy 
way, 
I had my trials, too, — and they were deep. 

Enter Don Pablo. 

Don Pablo. Good morning, Father. 

Father Serra. I am pleased to see you, Sefior. I wish 
to talk with you about a rumor I have heard — that cer- 
tain fugitive neophytes are in your employ; I do not 
think you know they are converted Indians, and that 
the rules forbid their working for other than Mission in- 
terests. 

Don Pablo. I was in need of herders and some new 
ones were sent from Monterey, but I did not know that 
they were neophytes. 

Father Serra. Who sent them, Sefior? 

Don Pablo. Governor Fages. 

Father Serra. As I supposed. 

Don Pablo. It could not be he knew they were — 

Father Serra. He knew it. He sends soldiers to 
bring back the runaways that through the influence of 
their wilder brothers have been induced to desert the 



102 FATHER JUNIPERO SERRA. 

Mission. Don Pedro forces them to labor at the Pres- 
idio, getting their labor free of cost. We complained 
of this months ago. 

Don Pablo. Is it possible! 

Enter Father Noriega. 

Father Serra. Sefior Valencia knows nothing of this, 
as we thought. 

Father Noriega. Such acts are becoming every day 
occurrences. 

Don Pablo. Don Pedro must have known that it 
would be discovered. 

Father Serra. Did you request him for more help? 

Don Pablo. I merely made mention of my needs, and 
a few days later he sent the Indians with a note, saying 
I was free to use their services; but I shall return them 
to San Carlos this afternoon. 

Father Noriega. How many were there? 

Don Pablo. Ten in all; the governor sent more than 
I needed, but I suppose he thought as soon as I should 
receive the new addition, their assistance would be ac- 
ceptable. 

Father Serra. You expect another grant? 

Don Pablo. Yes, it is the finest l#nd in this vicinity; 
I petitioned the viceroy for it and the governor recom- 
mended the granting of the property. 

Father Noriega. May I ask where it is located? 

Don Pablo. It lies just east of us, running tv/o leagues 
back and almost equal length from north to south; it is 
where the old rancheria stands; the tract is well wooded 
in parts with the manzanita and madrone. 



ACT III. 103 

Father Serra. What new misfortune has happened 
to us now! 

Father Noriega. Who would have thought that he 
had gone to such extremes! 

Father Serra. O what rascality ! 

Father Noriega. Infamous! It is infamous! 

Don Pablo. Why, Fathers, what has happened? 

Father Noriega. Again you are deceived. 

Father Serra. How nefarious are the movements of 
this man. 

Father Noriega. Fit subject for an anathema! 

Father Serra. I '11 notify the viceroy at once! 

Father Noriega. Do so by special courier! 

Father Serra. Why, Don Pablo, are you a partner 
to this? 

Don Pablo. I am at a loss to understand your Rev- 
erence. 

Father Serra. This plot to steal the Mission lands. 

Don Pablo. What! Mission lands! Steal Mission 
property? 

Father Noriega. You have it now. 

Don Pablo. Does this land belong to the Church? 

Father Noriega. Certainly it does. 

Father Serra. I must see the governor immediately. 

Don Pablo. I understood it was unclaimed. He 
made no mention of it being Mission land. 

Father Noriega. The land is ours, or rather held in 
trust by us according to the original Mission grants. 

Do?i Pablo. Perhaps he does not know this. 

Father Serra. Of course he does. If the land was 



104 FATHER JUNIPERO SERRA. 

title free, why did he recommend the viceroy to make 
the grant? He, as the governor, is empowered to con- 
vey lands to settlers. 

Father Noriega. He was afraid to take the responsi- 
bility. 

Don Pablo. Fathers, I am astounded at these revela- 
tions. 

Father Serra. Only yesterday afternoon I sent a 
message to the governor requesting him to deliver us 
some agricultural implements held in storage at Monte- 
rey, and later I forwarded a note, making inquiry about 
the neophytes we were just speaking of; Captain Al- 
varez brought reply that the governor would not de- 
liver the tools and he did not state his reasons why: we 
have done a little work at cultivation the past few 
months, but it 's trifling considering the extent of prop- 
erty that should be made to yield the Indians the living 
that 's required: I can now understand why he held 
them back, having this grant in view. 

Father Noriega. As to the note about the neophytes, 
he paid no attention to it. 

Don Pablo. Well, well. 

Father Noriega. How long ago did you make appli- 
cation? 

Don Pablo. Three months, yes, over that. 

Father Serra. Too late. 

Father Noriega. This is scandalous! See him and 
openly charge him with this villainy! 

Father Serra. His intentions are to place within the 
hands of settlers all land he can possibly seize in the 
vicinity of this and the other Missions, thereby pre- 



ACT III. 105 

venting extension of Church interests, then seculariza- 
tion will follow. 

Don Pablo. I do not wonder at your feelings. 

Father Serra. If the answer to our petition would 
only arrive, it might contain some encouragement to 
continue the fight with this unrighteous man. Is month 
to succeed month and no relief, no justice for the Cali- 
fornias? 

Don Pablo. Then you await some movement in the 
south? 

Father Serra. Yes, we had to make complaints. 

Father Noriega. Proceedings hostile to our policy; 
but it is either appeal or refrain and see conversion 
stop and the Missions retrograde: but though we write, 
much is referred to the Audiencia, which is very slow 
in its decisions. 

Father Serra. He takes advantage of the fact. He 
will yet pay the penalty of treason to the frontier 
church, and when he falls, will fall his followers. 

Father Noriega. In plots, the more involved the more 
is solved. 

Don Pablo. Is he not a good Catholic? 

Father Serra. Only as far as the outward observances. 

Father Noriega. Why, Pedro Fages and Philip de 
Neve have gone so far as to influence Bishop Reyes to 
announce his intention of forming the Missions into a 
custody, to be called "San Gabriel de California." 

Father Serra. Which will be another step nearer 
secularization; as it is they succeeded in having a new 
reglamento passed that will greatly injure us. 

Father Noriega. The custody principle is now in 



106 FATHER JUNIPERO SERRA. 

force in Sonora, and has been so far most destructive 
to Mission property. Fages takes such quiet means to 
accomplish his aims. 

Father Serra. And that is why we suffer so. He as- 
sumes an enemy's most dreaded form, the part of the 
genial hypocrite, except when he becomes angry and 
forgets himself. He wins your friendship and one not 
knowing him confides, and all the time he is consider- 
ing your vulnerable points, and thus he molds his vil- 
lainies in the sunshine of these advantages. Of all vil- 
lains in the catalogue he is the blackest knave who aims 
to crush the rule of Christian Faith, for when the Church 
is swept away, then falls the fabric of society, supersti- 
tion rules and back to barbarism tends the age. 

Don Pablo. It would. We should beware such men. 

Father Noriega. Beware the governor! 

Don Pablo. Fathers, I will think this over, and learn 
the best course to pursue; and I ask of you to say nothing 
but calmly await developments. 

Father Serra. That is difficult to do, but you may 
govern us. We are convinced you are a friend of the 
Church, and it is best that you fully understand the pol- 
icy of the Mission system. Step within, and Father 
Noriega will show you documents relating to the Mis- 
sion rights and privileges. 

Don Pablo. I should like to know these issues better 
than I do. Exeunt. 

Enter Eduardo and Ignacio. 

Eduardo. You say you saw Dolores. 
Ignacio. Yes, I left 

Her with Senora Barbara. 



ACT III. 107 

Eduardo. She here? 

Ignacio. Yes, and Don Pablo. 

Eduardo. He is here? What for? 

Ignacio. I think it is about the neophytes. 

Eduardo. I 've been in the chaotic world so long 
I quite forgot the issues of the day. 

Ignacio. The senorita asked for you. 

Eduardo. She did! 

That 's kind in her. How much I wish that we 
Had never met. 

Ignacio. Did Don Eduardo speak? 

Eduardo. Just a reflection that, so note it not. 
Why am I blaming her? that is not just. 
Be cautious now, you 're in a state of grace: 
It 's not her fault that she is beautiful. 
She asked about, or wished to see me, which, 
Ignacio? 

Ignacio. To see you, that was all. 

Eduardo. I once did think I was a man of will, 
Now what a most deceiving thought. But then 
A stoic could not face these shadows long, 
His character would need another name. 
It stops at this. The Father 's calling you. 

Exit Ignacio. 

The president's advice was very sound, — 

I ought to know my way, of course I do, 

I love her, and I cannot kill the fact: 

How sweet she looked the other afternoon. 

I '11 speak to her — I '11 speak — I shall — I shall! 



108 FATHER JUNIPERO SERRA. 

Enter Dolores. 

Dolores. Aside. Absorbed in contemplation as his 
wont. To Eduardo. 
Eduardo. 

Eduardo. Ah, Dolores, I am glad, — ■ 
I 'm very glad you 're here. 

Dolores. You are not well. 

You 're overworked, you should not study so. 

Eduardo. Yes, you are right, I should not study 
so. 

Dolores. What is the subject you are studying? 

Eduardo. My study, I have longed to tell you that; 
It is, Dolores, that which you should know — 
That is — I started once before to tell — 
I— I — well, I do not know how to start — 
The subject, I have read, has always lacked 
An adequate description; it 's a theme 
Classed with the psychological — it 's grave — 
And very few propose its lines aright. 
I think — I will describe it later on, 
When I have manufactured phrases fit 
To dress description in the proper light: 
You ask narration when I 'm least prepared. 

Dolores. The subject must be deep. 

Eduardo. Yes, very deep, 

Too deep for me to fully comprehend. 

Dolores. Do promise me to study it no more; 
This contemplation makes you pale and sad. 

Eduardo. It is a wearing theme, and I 'm advised 
To give the subject up; it 's good advice. 



ACT III. 109 

Yes, leave such hidden things to older minds, 
Age and philosophy do well combine. 

Eduardo. But I can hardly think a sage engrossed 
On such a youthful theme. It interests 
The more in early life, one finds it hard 
To cast the thoughts aside, yes, very hard. 

Enter Father Serra and Don Pablo. 

Father Serra. I wish you would not hasten to depart. 

Don Pablo. I must, your Reverence, for pressing 
things 
Demand my quick return. The neophytes 
Is one of them, that needs a remedy. 

Father Serra. I 'm glad to see you are intent on that. 

Don Pablo. Yes, Father. Come, Dolores, we must go. 
Eduardo 's well, I hope? Come visit us. 
Good bye. Where 's Barbara? Ah, there she is. 

Dolores. Now do, Eduardo, come and see us soon. 

Eduardo. Thank you, Dolores, I '11 come. A Dios. 

Exeunt all but Eduardo. 

Eduardo. Another declaration fallen flat. 
It must be some high power is guiding me, — 
That unforeseen great destiny of man, — 
Or else the mind 's embarrassed by the show 
Of circumstance, and fails to make the point. 
If she were swayed for me as I for her, 
Then what a hopeless wreck she would become. 
I will not try again, so fare you well, 
My dearest friend, until I know my way: 



110 



FA THER JUNIPERO SERRA. 



Yet if I tell her of my longing love, 
Suppose she scorns my humble offering — 
The Padre said that she might not return 
The deep affection that I feel for her, — 
The thought is fearful when I think of it — 
It 's maddening! I could not stand the shock! 
'T would kill me, Father, it would kill me! 

Bells ring for Angelus. 




ACT IV. 

SCENE I. Exterior of the Official Department 
at Sax Carlos, Afterndon. July 14, 1784. 

Enter Father Noriega, Gov. Pages, Manuel and Ignacio. 

Gov. Pages. I should like to see the president. 

Father Noriega. He is engaged. 

Gov. Fages. I notified Don Pablo to meet me here, 
has he arrived? 

Father Noriega. I do not know. Have you seen 
him? 

Ignacio. No, Father. 

Manuel. A vessel came to port last night. 

Father Noriega. Indeed! A holiday for Monterey. 
Was there mail for us? 

Manuel. Yes, it will be over soon. 

Father Noriega. Notify the president the governor is 
here, and that a vessel has arrived. 

Exit Ignacio. 

Gov. Fages. Is he sick? 

Father Noriega. He 's always ill, but ever is at work. 
He 's with his secretary now. 

Gov. Fages. Drafting complaints about the mean- 
ness of the State? It 's his regular occupation. 



112 FATHER JUNIPERO SERRA. 

Father Noriega. How unjust you are. 

Gov. Fages. Well, we will let that rest. Who rode 
up? 

Manuel. The ladies, I am sure. I '11 go and meet 
them. Exit. 

Gov. Fages. Yes, there is Don Pablo. I will join 
him. Exit. 

Father Noriega. What insolence in misplaced author- 
ity and domineering in a uniform. 

Enter Father Serra. 

Father Serra. I 'm told Don Pedro is here. 

Father Noriega. He just left me as you were coming 
out. 

Father Serra. How is the governor? Well, I hope. * 

Father Noriega. Irritable and insolent. Senor Val- 
encia and ladies just arrived. 

Father Serra. Indeed, I shall be glad to see them. 

Father Noriega. The governor said he notified Don 
Pablo to meet him here. 

Father Serra. He must have had some purpose in that. 

Father Noriega,. Do you suspect? 

Father Serra. The grant? 

Father Noriega. I think the vessel brought the grant. 

Father Serra. That is it! he is here to officially notify 
me of the transfer. 

Enter Ignacio. 

fgnaeio. A soldier brought this packet from Monterey, 
your Reverence. Exit. 



ACT IV. SCENE I. 112 

Father Serra. Our mail. There is no communica- 
tion from the viceroy — I tremble for us now — our petL 
ions and complaints have not been acted on. 

Father Noriega. Courage. 

Father Serra. Here 's one from the Guardian. Reads. 
"A tract of land has just been granted to one Don 
Pablo Valencia, of Monterey, concerning which I have 
made an important discovery." — Fages succeeds! 

Father Noriega. Be calm! Read on. 

Father Serra. Reads. "For being desirous of knowing 
the location of the proposed grant, I compared the recom- 
mendations of Governor Fages with your last report on 
the lands of your district, and what was my surprise to 
find the tract included within the limits of Mission prop- 
erty, then I discovered that the governor's arguments 
were false and misleading, I tried to have the grant 
annulled, without success; the viceroy does not seem to 
understand the situation." 

Father Noriega. As I suspected! 

Father Serra. What infamy! 

Father Noriega. Is there no hope for us? 

Father Serra. Reads. "I shall bring the matter before 
the Audiencia, so gather evidence and send it to me at 
once. The petitions and complaints about Governor 
Fages' management that you forwarded last March, 
are being considered, favorably or not, I cannot say. 
The vestments Father Cavalier requested — "other 
matter. 

Father Noriega. We have no evidence. 

Father Serra. We must seek for it. I shall have an 
interview with Senor Valencia to-day. Exeunt. 



114 FATHER JUNIPERO SERRA. 

Enter Donas Dolores and Barbara. 

Dolores. Invited oft, yet he remains away. 

Dona Barbara, He surely lacks the wish of seeing 

friends. 
Dolores, Why even here we do not see his face. 
Dona Barbara. No doubt he has so much to do; you 
know 
He keeps accounts and helps in many ways. 

Dolores. That is not it, for he has kept accounts 
A year or more. We must go deeper still. 

Finds book on chair. 

Eduardo's book of prayer I gave to him. 
The Aves and the Paters, blessed prayers, 
Disclose the secret of his strange neglect. 

Dona Barbara. You have discovered it. 

Dolores. Devoted youth, 

Your time is well assigned. Forgiven now. 

Dona Barbara. Yes, that is it, for soon he hopes to 
leave 
For Mexico, to study for the Church: 
His plans are good, I wish him all success. Exit. 

Dolores. And so do I; but then — what might have 
been. — 
How opposite in character they are, — 
Eduardo's good, I hope he will be blest. 

Enter Eduardo unseen by Dolores. 

Eduardo. Aside. Dream of me, friend ? and dreaming 
wish me well. 



ACT IV. SCENE I. 115 

One looks and then her beauty must admit, 

For to deny would but the truth evade; 

I better speak, abjure the cloister's shade 
And in her care my happiness commit. 
A picture there, I never shall permit 

From loved Carmelo memories to fade. 

Yes, shun the cowl and play the serenade! 
As acts the cavalier yourself acquit! 
Stop — stop — do I forget I said farewell 

To meet no more until I saw the light 
Of understanding 'lluminate my way? 
My passions master me! my soul compel! 

Temptation hold! I'll not! God guide me right: 
To Nocturnes, Matins, Mass and Vespers pray. Exit 

Dolores. O, holy book, a solace ever be, 
And unto him bequeath, who reads your prayers, 
The kindest wishes from a constant friend. Exit. 

Enter Gov. Fages and Don Pablo. 

Gov. Fages. Don Pablo, you have been most for- 
tunate; 
Here is the grant, you '11 find it quite correct. 

Hands him a deed. 

Don Pablo. I thank you, Governor, you are most 

kind — 
Gov. Fages. No thanks, Senor, no thanks, I beg of 

you. 

Enter Fathers Serra and Noriega. 



116 FATHER JUNIPERO SERRA, 

Good Father, have you heard the welcome news? 
Don Pablo 's now at liberty to use 
Therancheria tract, it 's splendid land. 

Father Serra. I would congratulate him if he had 
An honest title to the property. 

Gov. Fages. What do I hear! The deed, Senor. See 
this. 
You know the signature. 

Father Serra. It 's genuine. 

Gov. Fages. O, I supposed you 'd say I forged the 

name. 
Father Serra. We had a prior claim. 
Gov. Fages. How 's that? 

O, yes! 
A visionary claim! I heard of it 
Some years ago; yes, many years ago. 

Father Noriega. Aside to Don Pablo. I 'm glad our 
president can have this time 
To show the governor what he has done. 

Don Pablo. I think Don Pedro will recall the grant, 
When is made known the error of the act. 

Father Serra. So distant was the time you thought 
our claim 
Of slight account, and so you made it out. 

Gov. Fages. Well, what 's this all about, do you ob- 
ject? 
Father Serra. I do object; the grant is most un- 
just. 
Gov. Fages. O, that 's in keeping with your princi- 
ples — 
To always take exception to my acts. 



ACT IV, SCENE I. 117 

Father Noriega. Don Pedro, do you wish to speak of 
this? 

Gov. Fages. I 'd like to hear about that prior claim, 
That flimsy pretext for a churchly deed. 

Father Noriega. Then please respect the age that 
bows that head: 
Your tones are rough, your speech is rude, refrain. 

Gov, Fages. I meant no disrespect. 

Father Noriega. I thought you did. 

Father Serra. The Church is pledged to guard this 
property, 
Because the aborigines, who are 
The rightful owners of the soil, became 
The willing converts to the blessed Faith, 
And placed their future and their trust in us. 
This land is to afford them Christian homes, 
When they are civilized to that extent. 

Gov. Fages. The viceroy thought the granting of the 
land 
A step in progress, therefore very wise. 

Father Serra. He thought it wise? you say, he thought 
it wise? 
Perhaps he did, on strength of your report: 
But do you think the viceroy such a man 
To grant this land away and knowing what 
The Mission Fathers meant to use it for? 
No, that official is too honorable: 
Use these broad acres for a rich man's kine 
To fatten on for his exclusive gain? 
Where is the virtue in such narrow views? 
He 's not the man to aid rascalities: 



118 FA THER JUNIPERO SERRA. 

Can God's productive soil be put to use 

In ways more suitable than to assist 

The toiling, homeless and down-trodden poor? 

Gov. Fages. Am I to always ask you what to do? 
I 'm here to see this country colonized; 
Has not Don Pablo worked to help the place? 
I 'm sure he feels the want of some reward; 
And justice should be given when it 's due: 
So let the Indians go another place. 

Father Serra. You prate of justice, how grotesque 
the forms 
It can assume when you administer. 
This grant 's a specimen of what you serve, 
And the deserting neophytes you sent 
To work as peons on Don Pablo's place, 
Is but another instance of the kind. 

Gov. Fages. Converted Indians! Now, how was that? 
I take but little notice of the men. 

Father Serra. Neglect of wrongs, conspiracies and 
thefts, 
Make the administration prominent. 

Gov. Fages. Insult the government and all concerned ! 

Father Serra. Insult the government! Impossible; 
I could not do a thing like that; it 's past 
The touch of satire, insult, or of jest; 
When truth becomes an insult then to prayers. 
What! is this northern territory small? 
Have we no settlers here to venture forth 
When wishing to acquire new estate, 
Or must the Church be always pioneer? 
And when the time for its reward has come 



ACT IV. SCENE I 119 

In seeing savage proteges have homes. 

Wherein the Crucifix its lessons teach; 

The government steps in to wreck it all, 

And give the world to understand, the Church 

Is an accomodating deputy, 

To venture in the wilds and pave the way, 

So an ambitious State when all is well 

Can grandly wave its servant to the rear, 

And pose before the world — a power divine. 

Gov. Fages. I understand the Church should be 
maintained, 
With due respect and in a proper sphere. 

Father Serra. Then, why do you persist upon your 
course? 
I '11 tell you why you are the wrecker here, 
It 's not to aid the welfare of the Crown; 
It is because there lives in you the hope 
To see Fages a little higher up 
In politics — a slightly greater man. 

Gov. Fages. Were you but less in years I 'd answer you ! 
The king — 

Father Serra. Name not his majesty again! 
Your old excuse, you represent the king; 
If so, I represent His Holiness, 
The supreme Word of an undying Church, 
A man infallible, beside of which 
The power of kings and grasping satellites 
Can never hope to stand. 

Gov. Fages. What 's that, you say! 

Do you defy the king? our gracious king? 

Father Serra, O, do not aim to turn the subject so, 



120 FA THER JUNIPERO SERRA. 

And try to cast upon me treason's stain; 
You know I honor him, I always have; 
The king is great, God save his majesty! 
He cannot, though, attain the dignity 
Or greatness of His Holiness, the Pope: 
It is the king's misfortune we bewail. 

Gov. Fages. Misfortune! 

Father Serra. Yes, his trial, that he should 

have 
For the administration of his laws, — 
Such poor interpreters. 

Gov. Fages. Now this must stop! 

I come, I bow, I speak, I am abused. 

Father Serra. Don Pedro, you are ever welcome 
here, 
E 'en though your bow is not an humble one; 
The speech you make is not a gentle one; 
And what you call abuse is justice served. 
It 's a reproach upon the State that we, 
The pioneers of California, 
Who have spent years of toil and suffering 
To build this wild and frontier country up, 
Must in our aging years waste precious hours 
To haggle for our just and lawful rights; 
And every day we live, to know that one 
Is near, with crafty, cruel, dark intent, 
Quite ready on the opportunity 
To mutilate or steal our recompense. 
It is a shame, a most degrading shame! 

Don Pablo. O, Fathers, Governor, do pardon me, 
I would attempt to place this matter right: 



ACT IV. SCENE L 121 

The governor assisted me to get 

A title for this property, for it 

Was my request that urged him for the grant; 

And Governor, I thank you for the work; 

I 'm sorry that this trouble has occurred, 

And there remains a duty to perform, 

To deed the land again, so I '11 assign 

All right and title to the Fathers here. 

Gov. Fages. Why, why! Don Pablo, this will never 
do; 
It is an act for which there is no call; 
No, no, keep it — -I can not — I shall not 
See fertile lands so lost upon a whim! 

Don Pablo. No, Governor, let it be set aside 
For uses of the Church, they need it most. 
I know you 've spoken for my benefit; 
Thanks for your interest, but it must go 
To those who hold the right, the prior claim. 

Gov. Fages. No, keep the tract! The Church shall 
not regain 
This land! entitled to the soil or not, — 
The State is master of this colony, — 
I 5 11 crush the — 

Don Pablo. Raise your hand against the Church, 

Fages, and you remain no friend of mine. 
Our ministers have suffered far too much, 
And all the reparation man can make 
Will not repay them for the good they Ve done 
Nor compensate them for the bitter trials 
That they have undergone so many years. 
I want no more of this disputed tract! 



122 



FATHER JUNIPERO SERRA. 



It 's Mission property, and with the Church 
It shall remain! 

Gov. Pages. O, then, if you insist — 

Don Pablo. I do, your Excellency. 

Gov. Fages. Then let them 

Retain the land. I '11 make the papers out 
As soon as we return to Monterey. 

Father Serra. Accept the thanks of all the friars, sir: 
I '11 speak for them and though our humble thanks 
Are all that we can give, you will be blest. 

Father Noriega. You have displayed the spirit of the 
just; 
We 're glad to see the Church has yet a friend 
In California. 

Father Serra. Praise God for that. 

Gov. Fages. And frailero will 1 now be termed. 

Father Noriega. It 's my regret you, cannot merit that; 
Instead El Oso seems to please you most. 

Father Serra. Thanks to Don Pablo we have justice 
now, 
And I will notify the Guardian. 
But what is Mexico to do for us? 

Father Noriega. Though all 's in doubt we '11 pray 
they end as this; 
From what the letter said we soon may know. 

Father Serra. I hope the gentlemen will stop till eve, 
So to attend the- Vesper services. 

Don Pablo- We will remain, your Reverence, and then 
The governor and party go with me 
To Rancho del Carrasco as my guests. 

Father Serra. I am exhausted, let us go within. 



ACT IV. SCENE I. 123 

Don Pablo, come, I wish to talk with you. 
Now let me take your arm, your Reverence. Exeunt. 
Gov. Fages. Aside. I 'm glad he thinks I did it for 
his good. 

Enter Manuel. 

Manuel Well? 

Gov. Fages. Well? 

Manuel. What can be done? 

Gov. Fages. Nothing, 

Ma?iuel. Nothing! 

Gov. Fages. Certainly. 

Manuel. But something must be done! 

Gov. Fages. Why so? 

Manuel. I marvel you are cool. 

Gov. Fages. I 've no reason to be otherwise. 

Manuel. We'll lose all! Must my greatest hopes 
vanish when there 's a possibility of realization? 

Gov. Fages. I can find another — 

Manuel. Another! 

Gov. Fages. There are a thousand choice selections in 
the land. 

Manuel. My love is not so easily transferred. 

Gov. Fages. What are you talking about? 

Manuel. This occurrence. 

Gov. Fages. It will not affect your love affairs; it 
will soon be forgotten. 

Ma?iuel. Indeed, I rather think they feel too grate- 
ful for the timely act. 

Gov. Fages. Why, then they 're satisfied. What more 
can they ask? 



124 FA THER JUNIPERO SERRA. 

Manuel. She '11 marry him ! That will be his reward, 
while I who worship — 

Gov. Fages. Stop. Tell me what you are talking 
about. 

Manuel This incident, of course. 

Gov. Fages. Specify, specify. 

Manuel. Dolores and Don Miguel. 

Gov. Fages. I was referring to a tract of land. 

Manuel. Why, have n't you heard that Miguel Al- 
varado saved Dolores' life? 

Gov. Fages. No. When I left to walk with Valencia 
we spoke of land matters. I hope you are not sorry 
her life was saved. 

Manuel. I bless the name of Don Miguel, but what 
becomes of me? she, woman-like, will take the senti- 
mental view and marry him. 

Gov. Fages. How well you have it planned. How 
did it happen? 

Manuel. Jose, the vacquero, told her of some rare 
ferns and wild flowers growing in a canon of the Sierra 
Santa Lucias, and yesterday she rode there alone to 
gather them, — a hungry mountain cat — a shriek — a 
swoon — my rival with a gun completes the stirring 
episode. He happened to be hunting that sheep-steal- 
ing animal. 

Gov. Fages. And you have lost a bride, and he has 
saved his second life this year. Noble fellow! He well 
deserves reward. 

Manuel. It was rather the hand of God than that of 
Don Miguel. 



ACT IV. SCENE I. 125 

Gov. Fages. No doubt he was an instrument. 

Manuel. The greatest hero is the knowing volunteer. 
What can be done? I cannot have my romance ended 
so, — send me away! No! send him away; that leaves 
the field to me, — that 's it!— that 's it! Do not allow 
him an hour in town, dispatch him to San Juan Capis- 
trano on a mission to their Reverences, Mugartegui 
and Fuster. 

Gov. Fages. You forget he is a civilian. Now if you 
were Don Miguel and Don Miguel — 

Manuel. Don't mention him again! Had I his op- 
portunity? 

Gov. Fages. Come, now. Woman's gratitude does 
not always take a sentimental course. Don Pablo would 
not accept the land. 

Manuel What! It 's his. 

Gov. Fages. The president raised such strong objec- 
tions he is going to give it up. 

Manuel. Is it becoming so the friars rule in Monterey? 

Gov. Fages. I did what I could to prevent it, but 
Don Pablo ruled; he insisted that the land should be 
given to the Church, in fact, he demanded it: I had to 
humor him. 

Manuel. Another misfortune! We are losing influ- 
ence. 

Gov. Fages. I think not. I presume he thought the 
grant would be revoked on pressure from the Guardian, 
so to keep the peace he gave it up. 

Manuel. Will not the president formulate this land 
business into a complaint? 



126 FA THER JUNIPERO SERRA. 

Gov, Fages. Let him do it; where are his proofs that 
I misrepresented anything? I worded that recommend- 
ation too carefully. His complaint will be listened to, 
smiled at, referred to the Audiencia, and when they de- 
cide it was an unintentional error, about five years will 
have passed. 

Manuel. An incident subject to the process of con- 
tinuence. 

Gov. Fages. Convenient. How seldom do we see 
your friend. 

Manuel. Yes, but why, I cannot understand. 

Enter Donas Dolores and Barbara. 

Dolores. Governor, you have missed something. 

Gov. Fages. What is that? 

Dolores. A fandango. 

Manuel. You have been dancing, Sefiorita? 

Dolores. Yes, I know the governor likes the dance. 

Gov. Fages. Indeed I do. Why did you not tell me? 

Dolores. Barbara thought you busy, your Excellency. 

Gov. Fages. Dona Barbara, my cares will never be 
so pressing that I cannot lay them aside to attend a 
fandango, in which the Sefiorita is a participant. 

Manuel. Or I. Aside to Dona Barbara. You are 
very cruel. 

Dona Barbara. I am sorry, but you always seem so 
interested in military affairs I would not dare to in- 
terrupt. 

Manuel. Senora, dare anything in such events. 

Enter Dona Eulalia and Don Pablo* 



ACT IV. SCEXE L 127 

Dona Eulalia. To Manuel Captain, you are very 
partial to the demands of state. 

Manuel To my detriment I am. 

Dona Eulalia. Most decidedly. 

Manuel I know it, I miss everything, always have, 
always will; everything has gone wrong; the governor 
is losing, I am losing; I never spent so unfortunate a day. 

Don Pablo. Dolores, you should not dance so much. 

Dolores. I am not tired. 

Gov. Fages. Dancing is a healthful exercise. 

D071 Pablo. I believe in encouraging it, but one must 
be moderate. 

Manuel Who was the partner, Senorita? 

Dolores. Juan Castro. He is a very clever dancer. 

Dona Barbara. The best fandango dancer in Mon- 
terey. 

Manuel Aside. Ah, he is! Another rival! This is 
going too far! Aside to Gov. Fages. Governor, this must 
stop. 

Gov. Fages. To Manuel What is that? 

Manuel. This corporal dancing with Dolores. Send 
him away. 

Gov Fages. Certainly, I can transfer him to Mission 
San Antonio. 

Manuel That 's not far enough, send him to San 
Louis Obispo; Father Paterna will welcome him. 

Gov. Fages. You command his destiny. 

Manuel Let him dance with the Indians for a 
change; as for Alvarado, I will challenge him at the first 
opportunity — no, I '11 not wait for that — I '11 make one 
I '11— 



128 



FATHER JUNIPERO SERRA. 



Gov. ^es. Injure him and you injure yourself. 

linfoT fol; ^ am l t0 d ° ? StaQd ^ and see this 

line of ollowers pay court to her? It seems my list of 

competitors has no end- a new one rises up at ails 

every hour to herald some heroic deed. Why Ten 

Eduardo ,s hkely any day to tell her of his love 

Gov. Fages. Do not become jealous. 




Manuel. I 'm not,— but— 

Gov. Fages. I see you 're not. Let them do heroic 
deeas that merit great applause. You forget I am 
behind you. I am still Don Pablo's friend and I never 
lose an opportunity to talk for you. Her father will 



ACT IV. SCENE I. 129 

have the choosing of her husband. They who lack in- 
fluence also lack advancement. 

Manuel She '11 not be forced to take another's 
choice. 

Gov. Fages. Failure I never recognize until success 
is irretrievable. To Dolores. Sefiorita, I heard of your 
escape, a narrow one; you should not venture so far 
alone, we cannot afford to lose you. 

Manuel Aside. No, nor lose you in any other wa)/. 

Dolores. I shall never ride so far again, un- 
attended. 

Gov. Fages. Aside to Dona Eulalia- Leave the young 
people alone awhile. 

Dona Eulalia. Yes, you go first. 

Gov. Fages. Seiior, I should like to speak with you 
about some property yet unclaimed in the Pueblo of 
San Jose. 

Don Pablo. Will the ladies excuse us? 

Dona Eulalia. Certainly, Senores. 

Exeunt Gov. Fages and D071 Pablo. 

Manuel Aside. Now they are gone, and if the other 
two would only go. 

Dona Eulalia. Do you not wish you were in Spain 
again, where savages and wild animals are unknown? 

Dolores. No, I like California. 

Manuel. Aside. Sensible girl! 

Dona Eulalia. I am a lone exception. 

Dona Barbara. So you are anxious to return? 

Dona Eulalia. I long to see the lovely gardens of 



130 FA THER JUNIPERO SERRA. 

dear Spain once more. This place is too new, I like a 
country that has some evidence of history, wealth, and 
power. 

Ma?iuel Aside. I '11 make capital of this and bind 
her in a common bond of sympathy. The Senora is our 
foil. Enthusiasm, announce your admiration in ringing 
eulogies. 

Dolores. How does the governor regard your views? 

Dona Eulalia. I am sorry to say he desires to re- 
main. Are you not anxious to return, Captain? 

Manuel, For me, I would rather be identified with a 
new and coming land than live 'mid the conservative 
relics of moldy and moss-grown towers. 'Adventure' is 
the Spaniard's watchword that impels him to seek for 
wealth, authority and fame, in countries that savages 
possess; and by that spirit heroic exploits stand achieved. 
A greater land requests attention now; and yet the peo- 
ple of the East live enwrapt in the mightiness of their 
existence, forever failing to recognise the fact there 
grows a western world. But if the East is opulent and 
strong; the West, enriched by Nature is rising as a 
power. If the East is beautiful; the West not only has 
that excellence, but far surpasses it by being vast, mar- 
velous, and sublime. If the East has a history; the 
West, though new, is making one and one that any 
state might well be proud to have. Give me the West, the 
pushing, progressive, and ever-assertive West! 

Dolores. Bravo, Capitan, speak well of the West. 

Dona Eulalia. For some this country offers great ad- 
vantages, but I feel out of place; my happiness is cen- 
tered in Madrid. Come, Senora, I want you to show 



ACT IV. SCENE I. 131 

me the village of the neophytes; I have never visited it. 

Dona Barbara. Certainly. We '11 leave you to your- 
selves awhile. 

Manuel Aside. But they are kind. 

Dolores* You 41 find the village quite an interesting 
sight. 

Exeunt Donas Eulalia and Barbara. 

Manuel Aside. How bountiful was Nature with her 
gifts; 
In one long life we meet like her but few: 
I '11 wait no more, I '11 know my fate to-day. 
Ah, Senorita, — I — I — 

Dolores. Well, Senor? 

Manuel. I need advice. 

Dolores. Indeed, now what about? 

Manuel. I — will you counsel me? 

Dolores. Perhaps, Senor, 

I am not qualified — 

Manuel. O yes, you are! 

Dolores. Well, now, what would you have advice 
upon? 

Manuel Avowal must come first — I am in love. 

Dolores. Why, that is news to me. Who is she now? 

Ma?iuel I will reserve the name a little while. 

Dolores. But what can I advise in love affairs? 

Manuel Just this, a little thing, though hard to do: 
When I propose, what method 's best to take? 
Shall I to her in rhyming cadence speak, 
Or turn my words into poetic prose? 
For I would have my play without a flaw. 



132 FATHER JUNIPERO SERRA. 

In fact I '11 have to use the greatest care, 
So says the governor, and he must know. 

Dolores, Then you 've been hunting for advice before? 

Manuel. O no, no, the remark was casual. 

Dolores. How can I tell you what to say to her 
Unless I know the kind of girl she is? 
Besides — you know the sweetest words are best. 

Manuel. Then teach me in a way that 's general. 

Dolores. That would not do, each case is different, 
And with a just severity demands 
Perfection in announcement of a love. 
Describe her first so I may know the way. 

Manuel. She might be angry if I pictured her. 

Dolores. I promise not to tell. Does she live here? 
Of course she does, so just tell me her name; 
'T will save description for I know them all. 

Manuel. A secret that must be, her home and name. 

Dolores. Describe the mystery, I 'm curious. 

Manuel. Well then, prepare to be astonished by 
Her many gracious charms, for they 're unmatched. 
I '11 start upon her disposition first; 

that in her is incomparable; 

1 see the promise of a happy life; 
She has a time-defying patience that 
No matter how monotonous the hour, 
Her rare propensity will master it: 

Then when she smiles you see how lovable 
Her nature; for there 's much in woman's smile; 
Her glance so soft, 't would wreck the strongest will 
That said he 'd love her not. And then her voice — 
Be it in song or conversation low, 



ACT IV. SCENE I. 133 

• 
All listless moments vanish on the sound, 

For harmony enriches every word. 

Dolores. So far as you have gone, she 's marvelous. 
O, yes — what is the color of her eyes? 

Manuel Her eyes have the ascendency o er all, 
And like most Spanish maidens they are black; 
But there their rivalry with her must stop; 
For though her eyes are dark they 've other charms 
That far surpass the spell that others have; 
They 're brilliant as the gleam of diamonds, 
But they unlike the diamonds are not cold; 
She need not use her voice for they speak out 
More eloquently than magnetic speech. 

Dolores. I am becoming jealous of this girl. 

Manuel. Her hair, her face, her hand, her foot, her 
form, 
Need long descriptions which I hope you '11 waive 
For want of fitting words, — but this I '11 say, 
She has been so endowed, that art would fail 
In trying to delineate the truth: 
Kind Nature left in her a masterpiece. 

Dolores. How beautiful she is. How you must love. 

Manuel. As loves a Spanish cavalier. 

Dolores. Enough! 

That answers all demands. 

Manuel. So in what way 

Must I propose to run no chance of loss? 

Dolores. A Spanish cavalier does not require 
Such information in his love affairs. 

Manuel. But might there not arise to kill my plea, 
Some rude, ill-placed, incorporated word? 



134 FATHER JUNIPERO SERRA. 

Dolores. It often does, — but this advice is dear. 

Manuel Though it would take the fairest gems in 
Spain, 
Or anything more stable than the gold 
That tints and ornaments the sunset clouds, 
I '11 seek for it, and finding, pay the debt; 
Yea, teach me words that will insure success, 
That on their utterance, < Yes', is reply, 
And I '11 endow you with a just reward: 
You 've promised me and I have told you all. 

Dolores, What, all? 

Manuel. O no, I could not tell you all; 

I '11 not attempt the indescribable. 

Dolores. Aside. O can it be that this is his revenge, 
Due for my not encouraging his suit? To Manuel 

You told me once that you admired me. 
And yet — 

Mantcel. I do with all — 

Dolores. What 's that! you do? 

And love another, as you so declare? 
Now that admission is a cruelty 
To her, she has my deepest sympathies; 
Suppose I tell her what you 've said to me. 

Manuel. O, she would not be angry in the least. 

Dolores. You thought she would when first I ques- 
tioned you: 
How marvelous a nature she must have. 

Manuel She is to me almost a miracle. 

Dolores. But are you never jealous of your love? 

Manuel. I am at times, there 're rivals for her hand. 

Dolores. A Spanish cavalier with rivals, no! 



ACT IV. SCENE I. 135 

Where is your rapier? are you afraid? 

Manuel. It is a cause where swords play little part. 

Dolores. Please tell me who she is? Now do. 

Manuel. I shall, 

Provided that you try to guess her name. 

Dolores. I am the poorest guesser in the world. 

Manuel. Dolores — 

Dolores. Ah — what — did you — say to me ? 

Manuel. I only got that far. 

Dolores. What was the rest? 

Manuel. I really think there is no more to say. 

Dolores. That was an exclamation of no sense. 

Manuel. It meant so much to me. 

Dolores. How so? 

Manuel Because 

It answered what you asked. 

Dolores. Now what was that? 

Manuel. Who is the one I love — then if you 'd know — 
Dolores, it is you, you are my love 
Come, let us lay aside this pretty farce, 
And tell me truly, is my love returned? 

Dolores. And you have loved me for — wait, let me 
see — 
There 's one, two, three, yes, nearly four short months; 
The time is brief to learn so deep a thing. 

Manuel Although despotic circumstance enticed 
From me two years of sweet acquaintanceship, 
I did not have to learn to love at all 
So quickly did your presence make me slave: 
But I have lived in those four doubtful months 
As many weary years, except the hours 



136 FATHER JUN I PERO SERRA. 

When you were by, and they were always short; 
Like sweetest things in life they lingered not. 

Dolores. How rapidly your years must hurry on, 
I would not see you age at such a pace, 
For fear your youthful days would be confined 
To far too brief a period; for youth 
Is short enough; when it is gone, fades love; 
That love which nature grants alone to youth. 

Manuel O, then regard my love, and save my youth, 
That it may taste the sweets denied in age; 
I loved you from the day that we first met, 
So let me have the shadow of reward. 

Dolores- The shadow, Manuel, 's too light a thing — 
But — if reality will compensate — 
I hardly think it may — I — 

Manuel. Then you do? 

where 's the hour that can this time surpass? 
All happiness that 's past, was pain till now: 

1 win and yet you did not tell me how. 

Dolores. You knew too well, dear Manuel, the art. 

Enter Gov. Fages and Don Pablo unseen by stage. Don 

Pablo is surprised. Gov. Fages extends his hand. 

Don Pablo grasps it, and gestures silence. 

Don Pablo. Let them enjoy their secret, it is dear; 
This time will be so hallowed in their lives. 

Gov. Fages. It shall be so. Aside. Well, this looks 
like success: 
Here is a day wherein I 've lost and won. 
To Don Pablo. The union of fond hearts do not delay. 

Don Pablo. No more than courtship 's dear necessity. 



ACT IV. SCENE II. 137 

Their lives now joined, shall never drift apart; 
For Love 's transfixed them with his magic dart. 

Exeunt Gov. Pages and Dori Pablo. 




mmiimi!!!^^^^^^^^ 



SCENE II.- — Interior of Father Serra's Home at 
San Carlos. Afternoon, August 28, 1184. 

Enter Fathers Serra and Palou. 

Father Serra. I 'm very glad that you arrived in time: 
The summons that I sent with my farewell 
To have a Father from the Missions near 
Take leave in person, will be most too late. 

Father Palou. I hoped that Father Sitjar would arrive. 

Father Serra* He will not be in time. I would have 
liked 
To also see dear Father Pieras, 
But then the Mission would be left alone. 
Your being here recalls old times again: 



138 FATHER JUNIPERO SERRA. 

How sorrowful seemed dedication day. 
When Santa Clara was, withlioly rites, 
Forever consecrated to the Faith, 
To know that Father Murguia lay 
Beneath the Church he labored so to build: 
Poor Father Pefia must be lonesome now. 

Father Palou. The sad condition I '11 encounter soon. 

Father Serra. Ah, yes; for one of the three friends 
remain. 

Father Palou. You '11 never know my feelings now. 
Alone. 

Father Serra. I know that feeling well. But two 
short years 
And little more since Father Crespi died. 

Father Palou. He was the life and sunshine of our lives. 

Father Serra. 

What sorrow, what bereavement, comes with death; 

To look for the last time on one we love, 

And know that nevermore the passing breath 

Will animate the form whose soul 's above. 

It 's then, I feel the world is lost to me, 

That I must wander lonely through this life, 

Before me no bright future can I see, 

A dark existence only, filled with strife. 

Most in this life must pass through such an hour, 

Some sink beneath the strain to not survive, 

One must be aided by a stronger power 

To stay the bitter shocks Death will contrive. 

Outlive the time, in time to come, we may; 

But in this life I know no sadder day. 



ACT IV. SCENE II. 139 

Father Palon. O, He who calls thee home, would 
summon me. 

Father Serra. We must abide His pleasure, dearest 
friend. 
I did not hope to leave San Gabriel, 
And Father Sanchez thought I 'd not survive 
And loved Cruzado then proposed to have 
The Sacramental rites administered; 
When all at once I felt I would be spared; 
But now I feel that He is calling me. 
Give my farewell to your associate, 
Dear Father Cambon, whom I will see no more. 

Father Palou. I shall. 

Father Serra. Francisco, I am not content. 

Father Palou. Vie with the world no more. Be tran- 
quil now. 

Father Serra. My life has been so short, your Rev- 
erence; 
It seems to me but little while ago 
I was in manhood's prime, and farther back, 
My memory is good, I was a youth 
For whom a most attractive future lay: 
My thoughts now backward turn to conquests past 
And from the verge of faculties' decay, 
I see the spirit of my early dreams 
Accomplished in the line of Christian work: 
But still I wished to save more gentile souls 
Than I had done, and now it is too late; 
A voice within me says, "Renounce your toil 
For your allotted time to save, is past," — 
It is indeed, — conversion days are o'er, 



140 



FA THER JUNIPERO SERRA. 



And lamentations will avail me not: 
Now comes that long-expected final hour 
When nearer with its dark approach the bier 
Appears in its sepulchral fantasy; 
And through the mist of mystery my soul 
Will take its flight to seek the life renewed; 
So dies the form and back to dust returns, 
So lives the spirit in eternal peace. 

Father Palou. Would all of us could do what you 
have done. 
Have no regrets; your life 's an answered prayer. 
Father Serra. It 's now long past the time when we 
should hear 
Of the petitions and complaints I sent; 
The franking privilege, the Mission guards, 
And escorts for the friars on their trips, 
The founding of new Missions down the coast, 
The need of posts in the interior, 
The governor's contempt at our requests, 
The use of runaways to work for him, 
And other things I wrote about last March 
And months before: have they forgotten us? 

Father Palou. The time is long but then official acts 
Are so encumbered by formalities: 
The viceroy is a just and pious man; 
Trust him, your Reverence. 

Father Serra. All may be well. Exeunt. 

Enter Father Noriega and Eduardo. 

Father Noriega. When does Captain Caiiizares re- 
turn to Monterey? 



ACT IV. SCENE II. 141 

Ednardo. He has departed, Father. 

Father Noriega. It is to be regretted that Governor 
Fages and family are absent in San Francisco: our 
Father Presidente is sinking rapidly: although he 's 
able to be up, the surgeon says he '11 not survive the 
day. 

Eduardo. I am thankful he received the last Sacra- 
ment. 

Father Noriega. Yes, and the Absolution and Plenary 
Indulgence of our Order. 

Eduardo. Does Father Diaz of the San Carlos re- 
main with us? 

Father Noriega. Until the end, my son. Has Cap- 
tain Soler arrived? 

Eduardo. Juan told me he sent the adjutant-inspector 
word to come over immediately. 

Father Noriega. I hope he will arrive in time. What 
of Captain Alvarez? 

Eduardo. I sent him word. Don Pablo and family 
will remain throughout the day. 

Enter Ignacio. 

Ignacio. Father, a messenger just arrived from Mis- 
sion Dolores, sent by Governor Fages. He bore this 
packet. 

Father Noriega. Very well, Ignacio. Exit Ignacio. 
They contain orders from the viceroy and advices from 
the College. Strange why they were sent to the Presi- 
dio of San Francisco. I shall look them over; there 
may be news of interest to our president. Exit. 

Eduardo. May I be granted just a little time to see 



142 FA THER JUNIPERO SERRA. 

the Father before he dies. I lose a friend that cannot 
be replaced. 

Enter Fathers Serra and Palou. 

Father Serra. Yes, I will see Eduardo now. Send 
him to me. Here he is. 

Exit Father Palou. 

Eduardo. My Father. 

Father Serra. Rise, my son. Tell me, have you de- 
cided to abandon your hopes of priesthood? 

Eduardo. Your Reverence, after studying this ques- 
tion from every standpoint; thinking deeply over the 
smallest details; and of late not permitting my affections 
to sway me in the least; I came to this firm and irrev- 
ocable decision, that it is my duty, so long as our 
Heavenly Father chooses to grant me life, to devote 
every moment of my time to His Holy Church, for the 
spiritual and material advancement of my fellow-men. 

Father Serra. How grand is this resolve. You have 
acted a noble part in your struggle against a strong temp- 
tation. There is no severer test of character than to re- 
sist the mighty power of the affections. My wish shall be 
fulfilled. Have you heard from Manuel or Dolores? 

Eduardo. No, Father, I avoided meeting them since 
I made my peace with Manuel, the day after our quar- 
rel. I felt it was wisest to shun those influences which 
might tend to affect my decision. 

Enter Ignacio. 

Father Serra. Aside. Wisdom as well as enthusiasm. 
Ignacio? 



ACT IV. SCENE II 143 

Ignacio. Captain Alvarez has arrived, Father. 
Father Serra. Most opportune! I should like to see 
the captain here. 

Exit Ignacio. Enter Manuel 

Manuel I heard that you were failing, Father; I 
hope it is not true. I 'm glad to see you, Eduardo. 

Father Serra. I fear it is, my son. Have you any 
news for me? 

Manuel Nothing, Father, — except — well — I heard 
that you were worse and came — 

Father Serra. Yes, I know; and you were kind to 
think of this old man. But I should like to have that 
little news. 

Manuel I 'm afraid it w T ill offend — 

Eduardo. Manuel, whatever you may say will give 
me no offense. 

Father Serra. That is the right spirit, my son. 

Manuel I have been engaged to Senorita Dolores for 
some time and it is Don Pablo's wish the bans be an- 
nounced the first Sunday of November. 

Father Serra. Manuel, it is good news! It is happy 
news! I learned it from Senor Valencia; but I wanted 
Eduardo to know it from your lips. Would that I could 
live to make announcement. A dying Father's bless- 
ing for you both. 

Eduardo. Manuel, accept my sincere congratulations. 
You were right; I was wrong. 

Manuel Eduardo, I felt I was advising what was right. 
Had you married Dolores I would still say you erred. 



144 FATHER JUNIPERO SERRA. 

When I told you she loved me I had had flashes of en- 
couragement. And, Father, I now see Don Pedro is 
wrong in many of his rulings on Mission affairs, and as 
my office in Monterey has been made permanent, I will 
do as I promised Eduardo on my return last March, that 
is induce the governor to be more lenient; more con- 
siderate; more just. 

Father Serra. At last my hopes of you are realized. 
The governor has injured us, but I am soon to pass 
away, and he no doubt will rule for many years — so, 
Manuel, tell him I send a last forgiveness for his oppo- 
sition and will pray as I often have before that he will 
become a wiser man. 

MamieL He cannot but think kindly on hearing 
your message. 

Father Serra. Manuel, Eduardo can rejoice with you, 
for he has wisely decided that a holy life is best. 

Eduardo. Yes, I know my life-work now. She will 
be happy, and I am satisfied. 

Father Serra. My children, you have made glad the 
heart of a dying man. Kneel and receive my blessing. 
Now, Manuel, tell Father Palou I wish to see him; and 
Eduardo, request Father Noriega's presence here. 

Exeunt Eduardo and Manuel. 

So ends the struggle, happily for all. 

Enter Fathers Palou and Noriega. 

Fathers, I wish to speak with you. Eduardo. Did he 
return? 

Father Palou. I will call him. Exit 



ACT IV. SCENE II. 145 

Father Noriega. I hope you are feeling no worse? 
Father Serra. I am a little stronger than I was an 
hour ago. 

Enter Father Palou and Eduardo. 

Let me commend to your love and care a youth who 
has won a mighty victory in following the dictates of duty, 
not desire; he is destined to make a most enthusiastic 
worker for the Church; Fathers, think well of my young 
protege, he is faithful. Give him letters to our Guardian 
and to our friend, Archbishop Haro, and also to Padre 
Fermin Lausen, stating it was one of my last requests 
that he be aided in every way, for he was under my 
care, and promises most well. 

Father Palou. Eduardo merits praise, he always did; 
I will do for him most gladly all you wish. 

Father Noriega. He shall ever have my love and 
care. 

Eduardo. Your Reverences, I humbly thank you. 

Father Serra. Let me go and bless the neophytes. 
Assist me, Eduardo. Exeunt. 

Father Palou. How much I wish some news would 
come to brighten his last hours. 

Father Noriega. That blessing has been granted him. 

Father Palou. What ! 

Father Noriega. The long expected news from Mexico 
has arrived. 

Father Palou. Possible ! Favorable ? 

Father Noriega. No message could much greater 
blessings bring. 

Father Palou. The hand of God. 



146 



FATHER JUXIPERO SERRA. 



Father Noriega. But perhaps the news might be dan- 
gerous to impart; he 's very weak. 

Father Palou. His weakness is a kind that will 
gather strength on favorable reports. By all means 
let him know of it. 

Enter Father Serra and Eduardo. 

Father Serra. My friends, I have a marvel to relate; 
Last night I had a strange experience, — 
It evidenced a holy man's reward. 
As I was kneeling in a fervent prayer, 
A sudden blank occurred, then I awoke 
To find myself upon the desert waste; 
I knew the place from many old reports; 
For weird, and dark, and silent at my feet, 
The Rio Colorado flowed along; 
I stood upon a little rocky knoll 
And round about there seemed the evidence 
Of pre-historic man. The night was such 
I could not see with clearness far away, 
More than define the ghostly sentinels, 
The cacti, yucca, and agava tall: 
Then all at once the place became illumed, 
The moonlight shone across the cactus plain 
And burst upon my view quite near to me, 
The blackened ruins of a massacre. 
It was Concepcion. All was so still — 
When suddenly to westward and afar, 
A hidden choir sang out in ecstasy 
The strains we 're wont to sing upon a death; 
A fallen cause seemed glorified in it; 



ACT IV. SCENE II. 147 

And with the song three mournful bells intoned 

Their saddened chimes; how strange my feelings were; 

Now comes the vision's most absorbing scene; 

So sad, so beautiful: for there appeared 

From out a bank of sombre western clouds, 

A phantom host that toward the ruins came; 

They were the souls of the uncoffined dead; 

The incense-bearers led the spectral front, 

Then came the holy martyrs, four in all; 

Upon their sacred brows the nimbus shone, 

And o'er their faces was the light of joy: 

Oh! God, forgive the sin, I envied them. 

Then near appeared I thought a penitent, 

It was the figure of a Yuma chief 

That gazed with horror on the sacred line; 

The Padres turned, and sadly looked at him, 

On which he cried in tones so terrified, 

" Look not at me in that reproachful way, 

For I am not the author of your woes." 

With one accord they blessed him and passed on, 

Then twice around the blasted ruins marched 

And through the charred remains from north to south, 

Then east to west, they made the Holy Cross; 

Upon completing which, the music ceased; 

The clouds that banked the east shone with a light 

Unlike that which I 'd ever seen before; 

The grandest chorus then, I ever heard, 

With < Tantum Ergo' made the Heavens ring; 

Then countless angels on the scene appeared 

And lined an open way before the place 

Whence came the wondrous light that covered all; 



148 



FATHER JUNIPERO SERRA. 



That center point my eyes could not define, 
So like the sun it seemed: the martyrs rose 
And through the open space they made their way, 
And followed those who followed them on earth; 
To those bright regions where the faithful go, 
The place where pain and sorrow is unknown. 
The mighty angel chorus fainter grew, 
And as their voices died away, the light 
Failed rapidly, and mist o'ercame the scene, 
In which the vision merged and then was lost: 
And at the end bowed I my head in prayer, 
And gave my thanks that God should let me see 
This grand reception to the dead rehearsed; 
For nature's great cathedral never held 
A vision quite so wondrous beautiful. 

Father Noriega. Oh! this is marvelous! 

Father Palou. It 's wonderful! 

Eduardo. What an experience! 

Father Noriega. Blest be their names! 

Father Palou. I can commit your sin, and envy too. 

Father Noriega. I wish I could have been with you 
last night. 

Eduardo. Thanks be to God, that I have chosen right. 

Father Serra. You have, my son: how stable was the 
proof. 
My friends, I wish you all had been with me. 

Father Palou. O, Mother Church, what touching 
miracles, 
Thy all embracing Faith presents to man. 

Eduardo. How would your Reverence interpret it — 
The vision of the souls? 



ACT IV. SCENE II. 



149 



Father Serra. I '11 tell you how: 

I took it as a great presentiment 
Of my approaching end, it seemed to me 
Like a reward for what I had endured. 




Father Palou. Aside. How well thy life deserves a 

like return. 
Father Serra. And from it did I draw the promise that 
The blessed land, our California, 
Would rise in triumph o'er its enemies 
As did the Fathers to immortal life. 

Father Noriega. Indeed! Indeed! how plainly is it 
shown. 



150 



FATHER JUNIPERO SERRA. 



Father Palou. No deed of state shall keep this land 
obscure! 
When I explored the great peninsula 
I was impressed with the surrounding views. 
Across a wide expanse of sandy dunes 
My way led to the stretch of ocean beach, 
And going north I climbed the rocky cliffs; 
Across the strait and on the northern shore, 
Bold headlands reared their summits 'bove the sea, 
Between the rugged shores, the rising tide 
Came flowing in, and all along the coast 
The barking cries of countless noisy seals 
Made with the gulls an animated scene: 
'T was then I felt this hidden western bay 
Was fated, as the time rolled on, to hold 
Much of the trade sent out from distant lands, 
And make the port one of much prominence. 

Father Serra. Ah! Fathers, I as well have been im- 
pressed; 
For ever since the day I first said Mass 
At Monterey, beneath the mighty oak, 
Within whose trunk we drove the nail to hang 
The holy crucifix, untilJ:o-day; 
Aye, even from the time when first we gazed 
From off Espiritu Santo and saw 
Spread out the land-locked San Diego bay, — 
An interval of over fifteen years, — 
I never ceased to feel the deepest love 
For California; she has my prayers. 
But, Father, it is not alone the port; 
Before me now a golden era looms; 



ACT IV. SCENE II. 151 

Progressive spirits will invade these wilds, 
And coming, stay; there are attractions here: 
Within these mountain borders are contained 
All things that needy man can ever want, 
For Nature reveled in her lavishment 
And left a masterpiece terrestrial: 
If ever distant shores were to be known, 
And in the knowing, recognized as great: 
Then o'er the name of California, 
Entwine the seal and symbols of success! 

Father Noriega. A prophecy the world will see fulfilled. 

Father Palou. It will be so. 

Father Noriega. I have received our official mail from 
Mexico. It was enclosed with the governor's packet 
and in consequence forwarded to San Francisco. It 
just arrived from there. 

Father Palou. It is the news you waited for so long. 

Father Serra. At last! Are the orders favorable to us? 

Father Noriega. So much so that your faith in Cali- 
fornia will be doubly strengthened. 

Father Serra. I wish few sweeter joys. 

Father Palou. Is the president's license to. confirm. 
renewed? 

Father Noriega. Reads document. It is to be. 

Father Serra. My successor shall have the privilege. 

Father Noriega. This is welcome; — the governor is 
warned to moderate his actions tow r ard the friars or he 
will lose his position and honors. 

Father Serra. A timely reprimand. 

Father Palou. Does this information come direct 
from the viceroy? 



152 



FA THER JUNIPERO SERRA. 



Father Noriega, No, but he instructed the College to 
inform us privately of these orders. 

Father Serra. We have friends in Mexico. 

Father Palou. San Fernando looks well to the in- 
terest of its missionaries. 

Father Serra. Are there any more? 

Father Noriega. The governor is ordered to return 
all fugitive neophytes to the Missions, and not use them 
for labor at the Presidios. 

Father Serra. Our complaints regarding them were 
not to pass unheeded. 

Father Noriega. He is also ordered to give all the 
necessary aid requested, to bring the fugitives back from 
the rancherias. 

Father Serra. This is excellent news. 

Father Palou. But we had long to wait for it. 

Father Serra. When is the governor expected back 
from San Francisco? 

Eduardo. He sends word he will remain this month. 
The Sefiora is ill at Mission Dolores. 

Father Palou. He can have time to reflect upon the 
wisdom of his orders before returning to Monterey. 

Father Serra. What of mission guards? mentioned? 

Father Noriega. Yes, they are to be increased to a 
sufficiency; and hereafter when the friars journey they 
are to have the adequate protection requested. 

Father Serra. How glorious is the news! lam im- 
patient to hear it all. What of the franking privilege? 

Father Noriega. The Junta has ordered the governor 
not to enforce the obnoxious law. 



ACT IV. SCENE II. 153 

Father Palou. A wise command. December last, 
your Reverence wrote of that. 

Father Serra. And twice since then. Nine months 
we 've had to wait. 

Father Palou. What of new friars? 

Father Noriega. The Guardian is arranging to send 
new missionaries immediately. 

Father Serra. A long felt want to be a need no more! 

Father Palou. Excellent ! 

Father Serra. There must be more! 

Father Palou. Tell all ! 

Father Noriega. What I will now read outweighs 
all previously declared. 

Father Serra. About new missions, I am sure! 

Father Noriega. It touches that. 

Father Palou. When comes success, misfortune tar- 
ries not! 

Father Serra. A flood of glad tidings! 

Father Noriega. Supplies and men for the founding 
of the proposed Missions of Santa Barbara and La Purf- 
sima Concepcion are to be immediately collected, found- 
ings made, and building commenced. 

Father Serra. At last, at last! after all these years! 
How good is God to comfort one so humble as am I. 

Father Palou. The best, the most interesting of all! 

Father Noriega. A greater follows. 

Father Serra. More ! 

Father Palou. Impossible! 

Father Serra. Is this a dream? 

Father Noriega. A sweet reality. The intended line 
of Missions to extend in the interior from north to south, 



154 



FA THER JUNIPERO SERRA. 



that our Father-Presidente outlined, now seems a near 
possibility. The Council of the Indes orders they be 
considered, and expeditions sent to explore the territory. 

Father Serra. Glorious news to a failing man! Now 
can I pass away somewhat recompensed. 

Father Palou. It is grand! 

Father Serra. Wonderful ! 

Fduardo. And secularization receives a blow! 

Father Noriega. Indeed it does. 

Father Palou. Our prayers are answered. 

Father Serra. This news though long delayed with 
greeting 's hailed, 
To date nine Missions have been founded, yet 
That number falls far short of what we planned; 
I will not live to see another reared 
For all there 's left to me is prayer and death; 
But prayers I '11 offer now, and after that, 
To have our Christian objects entertained. 
Push on with haste the new stone church that is 
To take the place of this adobe one; 
Complete the works I have projected here: 
Extend the confirmations everywhere! 
O, friars, labor as Saint Francis did 
For souls that trust to heresies for hope: 
Can wild environments hold forth to them 
The hope of resurrection after death? 
No, for they need the guidance of the priests 
To take them kindly by the hand and say, 
1 My children, let the Fathers guide you to 
The universal and accepted Church.' 

Father Palou. The Faith our Fathers held so sacredly. 



ACT IV. SCENE II. 155 

Father Noriega. God made the Church, it 's indefecti- 
ble. 

Eduardo. Man made the State which is the prey of 
time. 

Father Serra. Ah, son, that brings to mind our 
enemy. 
Let not the State in mocking sorrow sing 
A requiem o'er ruins of the Church, 
Nor when officials smile think they are friends 
And turn to plots an inattentive ear: 
They '11 try all means to break the Fathers' rule, 
Forbear to interfere when they may act 
Will usher in the epoch of our fall. 
But friends, while they may wreck the Missions here, 
The principles of creed they cannot touch; 
For though our blessed Faith is constantly 
Assailed by argument, assailed by foe, 
The Cross in triumph ever will emerge! 
Catholicism has reigned for ages now, 
The master creed of races and of climes; 
It will continue past the time these walls 
Become the dust of which they were composed, 
And when our memories are lost like those 
Innumerable ones, who 've passed away 
Recorded not by legend, line or stone. 

Falls back exhausted in Eduardo' s arms. 

Eduardo. Our Father 's dying! 

Father Serra. No. 

Father Noriega. Rest, Father, rest. 

Father Palou. Be seated here, dear friend. 



156 



FATHER JUNIPERO SERRA. 



Fatlier Noriega. Are you 

in pain? 
Father Serra. Exhausted, only; I am free from pain. 
Eduardo. Aside. So noble in the highest sentiments. 
No poet's pen in elegy sublime 
Your life can picture, or your deeds relate, 
And justly give you due. 

Father Serra. I 'm better now. 

Father Noriega. These charges shall be strictly fol- 
lowed out. 
Father Palon. We '11 watch the old regime with 

greatest care. 
Father Serra. What is that crying sound? the neo- 
phytes? 
Are they so quickly sorrowed on reports? 
Go, Father, and Eduardo, comfort them. 

Father Noriega. Aside. They have a cause to weep; 
they 're losing you. 

Exeunt Father Noriega and Eduardo. 

Father Serra. Francisco, when I 'm summoned and 
shall stand 
In presence of the Holy Trinity, 
I '11 pray for you, for California, 
And with my lowly prayers I '11 supplicate 
Saint Joseph, aye, and our Saint Francis too, 
That they may help our Order in its trials. 

Father Palou. May great success attend you, dearest 
friend. 
Ah, no, you could not other than succeed. 

Father Serra. I do not feel as confident as you; 



ACT IV. SCENE 11. 157 

My sins may yet debar acknowledgement 
That I deserve to thus be recognized. 
The carpenter has made my coffin? no? 

Father Palon. ' T was finished, Father, late last even- 
ing. 

Father Serra. It 's well. Francisco, you have labored 
long; 
You should retire. 

Father Palou. I think I shall depart 

The coming year; for long I 've wished to write 
A record of your ceaseless toiling life. 

Father Serra. To write my life account would honor 
me 
Much more than I deserve. My place is low, 
My name 's unknown except to very few. 

Father Palou. O pardon me, our country knows you 
well. 
I beg you let me take that comfort kind, 
As rest to my old age, and write your life. 

Father Serra. Then in my history do not omit 
My many faults, nor should you as my friend, 
Invest my sins with cloak of lenience. 

Father Palou. I '11 aim to be a just biographer. 
Aside. How can I write the faults of faultless men? 
There '11 be pathetic music in those lines 
That tell the virtue of his services. 
Here 's one of whom posterity will say, 
'He was the greatest man that ever trod 
The sands of Alta California.' 

Father Serra. Now, Father, will you grant my last 
request? 



158 



FA THER JUNIPERO SERRA. 



Father Palou. Beloved President, what e'er you ask. 

Father Serra. Then bury me beside the one we 
loved, 
Dear Father Crespi, in the Mission Church, 
Amid the scenes so many years our home: 
Although it seems a wrong requesting that 
I rest so near to one who never sinned, 
Yet the vicinity is sanctified, 
And resting there may purify a soul 
That had in life a need of constant prayer. 

Father Palou. That disposition 's one we settled on, 
Your Reverence. 

Father Serra. I thank you for intents. 
Was that a moan? 

Father Palou. The neophytes again 

Voice out their sorrows over your decline. 

Father Serra. Go speak to them, the faithful In- 
dians: 
-But let me have a glass of water first. 

Father Palou. Eduardo, there? 

Enter Eduardo. 

Eduardo. What is the Father's 

will? 
Father Palou. A glass of water for his Reverence. 



Exit Eduardo. 

Father Serra. Was that Eduardo ? 
Father Palou. 



Yes. 



ACT IV. SCENE If. 159 

Father Serra. Have him 

come in. 

Enter Eduardo with water. 

Father Serra. Bless you for that. You should not 

seem so sad. 
Eduardo. I know — I cannot help — O Infinite! 

Do spare the good kind friend of these past years. 

Father Serra. There, there. Eduardo: do not weep for 
me: 

A man is he that can a grief forget: 

I 'm happy now. for soon I shall be there: 

Then I will meet the Padres of the past, 

And see the greatest of departed ones. 

Xow go with my dear friend and tell them why. 

The neophytes, they should not mourn for me: 

And I will rest alone a little while. 

Father Palou. But, Father, shall we leave — 
Father Serra. He "s 

ever near. 

Exeunt Father Palou and Eduardo. 

goes to the door. looks out on the face of Nature, 
seems troubled a moment^ then his countenance becomes calm. 

He returns and reclines on a eoueh. 

Enter Father Palou. 



160 



FA THER JUNIPERO SERRA. 



Goes slowly to where Father Serra is lying, bends over him, 
starts , breathes a silent prayer to heaven. 

Father Palou. Eduardo. 

Enter Eduardo. 

The bells. 

Exit Eduardo. The bells toll* 

FINIS. 



v44 



Mi.. J7#,/,. 






V 






*?3?C5^52 



''ji^py" 



EPILOGUE. 

While Padre Serra's part long since was played, 
His sepulcher is yet uncarved and rough; 
Therein by friends in simple sorrow laid, 
Though honored some he 's honored not enough. 
In ruined state his Missions stand to-day, 
A sad reproach to Time's progressive hand; 
A mournful commentary on the way, 
The great are left forgotten by their land: 
And in my thoughts of him this came to me 
When thinking of the grave wherein he lies; 
As none earned sculptured marble more than he, 
Here is a noble soul to canonize. 

One now can say, though he to fame was born. 

Here lies a man, great honors left forlorn. 



LIBRARY OF CONGRESS 

iiiiliiiliiiiilliiill 

015 871 186 2 



no 



